William A. "Elmer" Phillips Jr., age 71 of Marblehead, died at home unexpectedly on January 6, 2013.

He was born in Marblehead, the son of the late William and Abbie (Curran) Phillips. Elmer attended local Marblehead schools. It was once said that "while you could take Elmer out of Marblehead, you could never take the Marblehead out of Elmer."

He joined the United States Navy at the age of 17 in 1958. He proudly served the Country on Active Duty for several years until being discharged to the Navy Reserves.

He was appointed to the Marblehead Fire Department in 1964 through 1969. In the early 1970's, he became a pioneer as an offshore lobsterman. Next, Elmer joined the United States Merchant Marines, where he worked in the Engine Department on deep sea ships. During this time, he would answer the call to his Country once again, receiving an Expeditionary Medal for The War on Terror.

Elmer was a member of both the Lyman Rollins VFW Post 2005 and Gerry 5 VFA of Marblehead.

He is survived by a brother Joseph Smith Phillips of Marblehead; a sister Ann M. Petersen of Marblehead; a nephew Joseph Richwagen of Swampscott, two nieces Kristin Richwagen of New York and Jody Martin of Marblehead, cousin Chris Phillips of Marblehead and a large extended family.


Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 1, 2013 at 11:00 AM at Waterside Cemetery, Marblehead with military honors. Following services everyone is cordially invited to a gathering at the Gerry 5, 210 Beacon St., Marblehead, MA 01945. At the family's request there are no visiting hours. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Lyman Rollins VFW Post 2005, 321 West Shore Drive, Marblehead MA 01945. Arrangements are under the direction of the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St., Salem. For online guest book or additional information please call 781 631 8885 of visit www.MurphyFumeralHome.com