Malcolm Phillips

Malcolm Derwin Phillips peacefully departed this world at 5:05 pm on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was born April 20, 1958, at 5:07 am in Elkhart, Indiana, to the late Roger H. and E. Jean (Andrews) Phillips. At a young age, Malcolm accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and had fond memories of attending both St. James AME Church and Canaan Baptist Church with his two brothers, Marlon and Miles, each Sunday. Malcolm graduated from Elkhart Central High School in 1976, where he was a 3-year starter on his beloved “Blue Blazers” varsity basketball team. After graduation, he attended Indiana State University but decided to take the entrance exam for the United States Navy. While serving in the Navy, Malcolm wed Renee Davis, and from this union, a daughter, Mallori, was born.

In August 2002, Malcolm retired from the US Navy after serving his country for 20 years as a decorated servicemember and a graduate of the Navy Military Police. His military career afforded him the opportunity to travel the world. One of his most memorable and cherished experiences was visiting the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. After his retirement, Malcolm continued serving in the public safety profession in Nevada, Delaware, and Michigan. His most recent positions were at Delaware Technical Community College and Kellogg Community College. Malcolm’s colleagues knew him to be generous and have an unselfish concern for the welfare of others. He was deeply sensitive to the feelings and struggles of others and offered both understanding and financial support. Numerous examples were shared of Malcolm purchasing food or other essentials for those in need, demonstrating his unwavering generosity. 

Malcolm took pride in his appearance, always impeccably dressed and effortlessly stylish, leaving a lasting impression wherever he went. An avid sports fan, he loved the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Lakers, and became a University of Michigan convert. He also loved music and cooking, especially grilling for family and friends. Anyone who knew Malcolm discovered him to be a calm, gentle spirit who never met a stranger.

 Malcolm was preceded in death by his father, Roger. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, E. Jean of McLean, VA; daughter, Mallori (Anthony) Greenidge, of Orlando, FL; two brothers, Marlon (Frances) of McLean, VA, and Miles (Janice) of Elkhart, IN; sister, JoAnn Davis-Covington of Greensboro, NC; grandchildren, Robert and Lena Greenidge; uncles, Gregory (Katie) Andrews and Warren (Brenda) Andrews; aunt, Audrey (Jeff Bowles) Andrews; nephews, Maurice Phillips, Myron Phillips, and Mateo Phillips; his companion of many years, Jerri Barnett; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends. 

A Celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Agape Missionary Baptist Church 248 West Wolf Avenue Elkhart, Indiana, where friends may visit with the family at 11 am and a memorial service will begin at 12 pm with Reverend Dr. Dannell Brown Officiating. For those unable to attend you may livestream the service by clicking here. 

Malcolm will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery during a private family service. 

Please visit Malcolm’s memorial webpage to share condolences and memories with his family at https://www.Langelands.com