Collon was born October 28, 1923 in Rutherford County, NC to the late James A. Phillips and Lona Bell Lowery Phillips.  He was a veteran of World War II having served in the US Army.  Before his retirement, he worked for over 50 years for Burlington Industries where he held the position of supervisor.  He was also a longtime member and deacon of Harriett Memorial Free Will Baptist Church and a member of Woodmen of the World.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Wayne Roger Phillips.

     Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Georgia Burleson Phillips; one grandson; James Wayne Phillips and wife, Debbie of Forest City; one granddaughter, Donna Buchanan of Ontario, Canada; three great grandchildren, Terri Goforth, Garrett Buchanan, Eric Buchanan; two great-great grandchildren, Mackenzie Phillips and Nathaniel Goforth. He is also survived by two nephews, Bobby Whisnant and Gerald “P.D.” Whisnant.

     Funeral services will be conducted at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, February 7, 2011 at Harriett Memorial Free Will Baptist Church with Reverend Robert Harris officiating.  Interment will follow in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery with military honors being accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 until 12:00 on the day of the service at Harrelson Funeral Home and a family procession will follow to the church for the service.

     Harrelson Funeral Home is serving the Phillips family.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com