PHILLIPS, Edward

Nov. 26, 1931 - May 30, 2020

Edward Openshaw Phillips.

Born November 26, 1931 - died May 30, 2020 of complications from Covid-19. Youngest son of A. Lovell Phillips and Dorothy Skaife Phillips, predeceased by his sister Grace Hancock (2016) and his partner of 52 years, Kenneth S. Woodman (2018). Survived by his brother L. Philip Phillips, nephew Lewis Hancock, nieces Kate Hancock-cooke (Charlie), Martha Hancock (Bill) and Emma Hancock-kourkopoulos (Dimitri), and his great-nieces and nephews; Henry, Jack, Max, Georgie, Sophie and Lukas.

Born and brought up in Westmount, Ted lived within its borders with Kenneth for most of his life. Ted's academic career included a B.A. from Mcgill University, a BCL from Université de Montréal, graduate degrees in Education and English Literature from Harvard University and Boston University and finally art classes at the Visual Arts Centre in Westmount. After rejecting a law career, Ted taught English, before pursuing his interest in drawing and painting. In 1981 Edward O. Phillips the writer appeared, publishing twelve novels and many short stories.

Edward O. lived his life with enthusiasm for everything - writing, painting, music, friends, travel, generous hospitality and garage sales. With Kenneth, he welcomed friends, family and colleagues to their home, always enjoying good conversation and much laughter, charming everyone with good humour and kindness. As a successful author he wrote about a social scene that will continue to be enjoyed as a part of Montreal's history - Westmount in the later 20th century. Skillfully and cleverly written, his novels are witty and devastatingly true to the times. He will be sorely missed by his family and the many good friends he enjoyed. By his request there will be no funeral. Please consider making a donation in his memory to the Canadian Red Cross. The family especially wish to thank the staff of Place Kensington and Home Care Assistance for their kindness and wonderful care.