Mark Dale Phillips, born on January 31, 1958, in Effingham, Illinois, passed away on June 30, 2024, at the age of 66 in St. Elmo, Illinois.  A lifelong resident of Hoosier Township, Mark was deeply rooted in the land he was raised on and cherished.

      Mark's early career was spent in the oil fields, where he forged lasting friendships and developed a reputation as a committed worker.  He later served as the Road Commissioner for Hoosier Township, dedicating his efforts to the betterment of the local residents.  Mark concluded his professional journey at Bible Pork, Inc., where he continued to exhibit his strong work ethic and develop lifelong friendships.

      Beyond his professional life, Mark was a devoted family man, known for his generosity and sense of humor.  He was a proud husband to Debra (Carpenter) Phillips for 43 years and a loving father to Crystal (Ryan) Hosselton and Michael (Naomi) Phillips.  He took great joy in his role as a grandfather to Destiny, Eva, Tyler, Mason, Maveric, and as a great-grandfather to Cooper, Carley, and Levi.

      Mark's hobbies included coon and deer hunting, playing cards, cheering on the Chicago Bears, and enjoying a Pabst Blue Ribbon. These simple pleasures were a testament to his down-to-earth nature and love of life's basic joys.

      Mark is survived by his wife; children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; siblings: Anthony (Carol) Phillips, Alvena (Terry) Hildebrand, Larry (Donna) Phillips, Jay C. Phillips, Vickie Harvel, and Alan (Sharyn) Phillips; brother-in-law: Sonny Dale Carpenter; sister-in-law: Donna Jo Carpenter; special friend: Gina Brooks; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Arthur Warren and Geneva Phillips; his in-laws: Gene and Shirley Carpenter; niece: Angela Jo Phillips; nephew: Jesse Dale Carpenter; and friend: Tom Brooks.

      A memorial ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 5, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  A memorial visitation will be from 9 until 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.  The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Mark’s life.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with final expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, please visit: www.frankandbright.com