BELLA VISTA — Kenneth G. Phillips,

age 81, of Bella Vista, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 19, 2023, at the Northwest Medical Center in Springdale, surrounded by family.

Kenneth, son of the late Cecil and Iva “Louise” Phillips, was born on April 5, 1941, in Carterville. Kenneth grew up and attended school in Carterville. During his time at Carterville High School, Kenneth was active in sports including football and basketball, and held a parttime job at the Joplin Coca-Cola Bottling Company in the bottling department. After graduation, Kenneth was encouraged by the President of Joplin Coca-Cola plant to attend Jr College in Joplin for business administration. He then moved his way up with in the company to management positions and then as Vice President of the Wichita Heartland Coca-Cola facility until his retirement. Soon after, Kenneth moved to Bella Vista, Ark., to be close to Kenneth’s two favorite things, golf and grandchildren. Kenneth then purchased the Hiwasse Hilton Diner, where he enjoyed serving the locals and tourists with his family for over 34 years.

Kenneth was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was united in marriage to Juanita Russell on January 10, 1970, in Joplin. She survives.

Also surviving are his grandchildren, Seth Edwards, and his wife, Cassidee, of Joplin, Abby Edwards, of Webb City, and Madison Ritter, of Joplin; his great- grandchildren, Gracie Edwards-Pineiro, Baker Malone, Lawson Roderique, Lincoln Roderique, and Walker Ritter; and one great-great-grandchild, Sergio James “S.J.” Pineiro. In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by his only child, Keena Gail Phillips, in 2001.

Private family graveside services will be held at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin. Friends and family may visit Parker Mortuary in Joplin during normal operational hours on Wednesday, February 22nd. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Association for Cancer Research and may be entrust to the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.