Hayden Phillips

Hayden Carl Phillips, 84, of Franklin, Arkansas, passed from this walk of life to his Heavenly home on Saturday, September 14, 2024, in Ash Flat, Arkansas. 

He was born in Myron, Arkansas, on September 28, 1939, son of the late Cecil and Altha (Plumlee) Phillips. Hayden was a 1957 graduate of Violet Hill High School. He went on to attend Arkansas State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. While attending college, he met Rachel Ellen McDonald. On December 28,1962 he was united in marriage to Rachel and together they raised three children. Hayden taught school (Agri and Science) in Hoxie and Evening Shade schools. Hayden grew up on a farm and always loved farming. After teaching for several years, he made the decision to retire from teaching and farm full time. After his stroke, his mobility was limited, but he relied on Bryan to give him the daily farm report. On days he was feeling good, he loved to go to the farm, hang out in the shop, and was even able to get in his tractor and help cut hay. 

Hayden served many years as a board member for Farm Bureau, Cattlemen's Association, Izard County Conservation District, and Izard County FSA.

Another great love of Hayden's was his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He taught them important life lessons, but always had a playful spirit. They could always make him smile and laugh and he loved them so much.

Hayden was a faithful Christian and was a member of the Franklin Church of Christ for 57 years. 

Hayden is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Bonnie and Rob Coleman, and son and daughter-in-law, Bryan and Cindy Phillips; four grandchildren Justin Coleman, Amy (Kevin) Reano, James (Katelyn) Phillips, and Ethan (Hailey) Phillips; five great grandchildren, Blake and Carter Coleman, Josie and Miles Reano, and Chloe Phillips; brother, Garland Phillips; his sister-in-law, Ruth Treat; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his son, Mark Phillips. 

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Doty Family Funeral & Memorial Service Chapel in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, September 18, 2024, beginning at 2:00 PM at Franklin Church of Christ in Franklin, Arkansas, with John Schuhknecht and Barry Wilkes officiating.  Bruce Caldwell will lead congregational singing.

Pallbearers will be Bryan Phillips, Rob Coleman, Justin Coleman, James Phillips, Ethan Phillips, and Kevin Reano.

Burial will follow the service in the Roberts Cemetery in Franklin, Arkansas.