Phillip John Smith a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away suddenly on September 24, 2018. If you knew Phillip you know that he was a man of God, and he loved the Lord with all his heart.

Phillip was born in Pocatello, Idaho on March 31, 1957, to the delight of his parents Ronald “Buz” Smith, of Turlock, CA and Louise Smith, of Ripon, CA  He leaves behind a loving family;  His brother Dan Smith (Diane),  Sisters Linda Duran , (Joe) and Sandy Gunnarson , (Mike) all of Ripon, CA.  Phillip was known as “Uncle Phil,” and he leaves behind nine amazing nieces and nephews and five great-nieces and nephews, he loved them, and they brought him never-ending joy.

Phillip graduated from The University of Pacific and was a Pharmacist for over 36 years, and he recently retired from SaveMart pharmacy, a profession that he dearly loved. He loved his church family at Jackson Avenue Church in Escalon. His true joy was serving in the ministry and sharing the word of God; he had a Pastor’s heart and served generously. He was known for his quick wit and his appropriate irreverent humor as well as his random acts of kindness!

He loved to travel, and an ocean visit was at the top of his list. Phillip enjoyed life to the fullest, and favored great food; he was quite the Foodie. Recently, just for the fun of it he took up bowling as a hobby and was proud of the fact that he was pretty good at it. Phil’s sense of humor was terrific and enjoyed by all who know and loved him. He was a friend to many and made life more meaningful to those that he worked with him, colleagues, and customers. One of Phillip’s trademarks was his vast collection of Jerry Garcia ties, which he wore every single day while working as a Pharmacist. Most recently he spent time serving as pharmacist advisor at Bethany Home in Ripon, he enjoyed his service and spending time with the residents. 

Franklin & Downs Funeral Homes are honored to be serving the Smith family; Visitation services are Friday, October 5, 2018, from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM at 1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto CA.  Private Committal services will be held at Burwood Cemetery in Escalon, CA.

A Celebration of Phillip Smith’s life, will be on Saturday October 6, 2018 at 10:00 AM at Redeemer Church located at 820 “H” Street in Modesto, CA