SPRINGDALE — Loyd Wade Phillips,

75, of Spring dale, Ark., died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, at Circle of Life. His loving family was with him. Loyd was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 2, 1945, the son of Loyd F. Phillips and Verna (Zimmerman) Phillips.

He was raised in Longview, Texas, with brothers David Neal Phillips and Terry Don Phillips.

He is survivied by wife Betsy Phillips, who he married May 18, 1968. They had two children, William MacKenzie Phillips and JoAnne Phillips. Together they raised their children and worked to build a close family and strong community of friends. He was most proud of grandsons Wyatt McNabb Phillips and Gabriel Skie Phillips.

He was an outstanding athlete at the University of Arkansas. Loyd was a twotime All-American and the 1966 Outland trophy winner. He was a member of the 1964 National Championship team and played for the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints.

Loyd was a first round draft pick in 1967 by the Chicago Bears and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992. After the NFL, Loyd returned to the University of Arkansas to complete his college degree and earned a master’s degree in education. He served in the public schools as a vice principal in both Springdale and Rogers for 38 years.

Loyd’s focus was always on helping students succeed. For all the talk about his toughness, he also impacted many lives with his compassion and wisdom. He has been an inspiration for many students.

Loyd requested that any memorials be made to either the Springdale or Rogers School Districts. The family hopes to hold a memorial service in the spring. Online condolences: www.Westfield Chapel.com .