Philip Harold Nelson

Philip Harold Nelson, 73, of Wichita, Kansas, sadly left us on January 31, 2024. Survivors include his wife, Jill Marie Lancaster Nelson; sons Brian P. Nelson, wife Angie H. Nelson and Michael A. Nelson wife Melissa Downing. His grandchildren Kaylie S. Nelson and Cameron B. Nelson. As well as his sister Phyllis McKibbin.

Phil Nelson was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather. He was a great partner, and devout Christian man. Phil had a boisterous sense of humor that spread joy to everyone around. He had an amazingly contagious laugh that could light up any room. He was a friend to all, treating others around him with respect and kindness.

Phil was all about family. He and his wife Jill were married for 52 years. He loved sports, and coached his son’s various teams. He attended all his family’s events, concerts, plays, and celebrations. As a grandfather, he made it a point to be with his grandchildren for all their important moments. He absolutely loved watching them in their many bowling tournaments. Some of his favorite times were spent watching WSU games as a family.

If you knew Phil, you know he was passionate about baseball. He played baseball at all stages of his life, well into his fifties. He watched baseball whenever he could. After his time playing baseball came to a close, Phil became an umpire for youth baseball. He umpired games for all ages throughout southeast Kansas and Cooperstown, New York.

As a Christian, he was active in his church. Phil loved to sing and always sang in the church choir. While at Zion UMC he worked in the youth after school programs and served wherever he was asked. He was most recently in service to the Lord at Pleasantview Baptist in Derby.

Phil was hard working and dedicated to his profession. He enlisted in the Navy, serving four years active and two years in the reserves. He went on to graduate from Wichita State University from the College of Health related professions: Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. He was a member of American Society of Clinical Pathologists. He worked for St. Francis Hospital and the V.A. Hospital, where he retired after 35 years of service.

Phil truly celebrated life and lived it to the fullest. He made the most of every day. His family is so grateful for his life and the times they shared together. He spent his final month of life courageously battling cancer. He never complained. He just continued to focus on and love those around him. He was a true hero and inspiration to all who knew him.

Visitation will be 4-8pm Tuesday, February 6, at Smith Mortuary in Derby. Funeral services 1pm Wednesday, February 7, at Pleasantview Baptist Church, followed by interment in the Kechi Cemetery, with honors conducted by the United States Navy.

Memorials have been established with the Southwest Boys Club, and the American Red Cross.