Irvin Wayne Phillips

Irvin Wayne Phillips, 65, of Christiansburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, and cherished memories.

Born on June 6, 1961, Irvin was the son of the late Clarence Rollie Phillips and Nadine Elizabeth Perdue. In addition to his parents, Irvin was preceded in death by his sister, Debra Ellen Wood (Woody), and his brother, Rollie Clarence Phillips Jr. (Janet).

Irvin made an honest living and took great pride in the art of tile installation. He learned his trade at a young age working at DeHart Tile and went on to own and operate his own tile company for more than 35 years. Highly respected in his community and by all who had the good fortune to know him, Irvin was known for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship.

Above all else, Irvin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He found great joy in the simple beauty of nature, was a passionate fan of NASCAR racing, and held a deep appreciation for classic muscle cars. Most of all, he cherished the time spent with his family and loved ones. Irvin’s warmth, enthusiasm for life, and devotion to his family and work will always be remembered. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Stewart Phillips; his daughter, Chasity Phillips Akers; his son, Christopher Sweeney (Heather); his sister, Regina Phillips Alley (Kevin); and his sister-in-law, Melissa Kniskern (Kirk).

He was a proud grandfather to Hailey Correll, Emma Christian, Cheyenne Sweeney, and Owen Sweeney. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews: Charlene Carpenter (Nick), Tyler Phillips, Carter Alley (Tiffany), Logan Alley, Brandon Spradlin (Shelly), and Jessica Kniskern and many great nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, starting at 5:00 PM at Horne Funeral Home in Christiansburg, Virginia. A Celebration of Life service will immediately follow at 6:00 PM.  A graveside service will take place on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Halls United Methodist Church in Elliston, Virginia. Family and friends will meet at Horne Funeral Home in Christiansburg, departing at 10:30 AM prior to the service to join in the funeral procession to the cemetery.

Special Acknowledgments & Memorials

The family extends a heartfelt thank you and special mention to Good Samaritan Hospice, Wayne Scott, and Joe Gorskey for their compassionate care, kindness, and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irvin’s memory to the American Lung Association, 55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60601.