Mr. Ernest A. "Big E" Phillips, Jr.. of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he went to be with our Lord on August 31, 2013. On October 17, 1922 Ernest was born in Lafollette, TN, the treasured son of Ernest Albert Sr. and Grace Garvey Phillips. Growing up as one of four children he shared his childhood with two sisters Carolyn and Evelyn and a brother John. In May of 1940 he graduated from Bluefield High School in West Virginia. Patriotism beckoned, and Ernest answered the call serving with the U.S. Army Air Corp during World War II. He flew over 50 missions as a waist gunner in a B - 24 Liberator. Ernest and Frances L. Bornschlegal fell in love and were married on December 23, 1956 in Mendham, NJ. Together they shared 56 years of life's adventures. From their union came four handsome sons Craig, Tim, David and John. Over the years the family tree flourished with the added blessings of 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Over the years the family enjoyed fishing along the east coast from New Jersey to the Florida Keys. Other fishing adventures included the freshwater streams and lakes inland near the east coast. Ernest is lovingly remembered by his wife, Frances; four sons: Craig Phillips and wife Teresa of Mumbai, India, Timothy P. Phillips and wife Maria of Durham, NC, David B. Phillips and wife Teresa of Brawley, CA, and John A. Phillips and wife Deborah of Rochester; a sister Carolyn Finkelhoffe of New Market, VA; a brother John R. Phillips and wife Susan of Lenoir, NC; 12 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. Preceding Ernest in death are his parents and a sister, Evelyn Keyes. His sons Minister John Phillips and Minister Craig Phillips will officiate services. He will be laid to eternal rest at the Citizen's Cemetery, Rochester.