Phillip Campbell, 76, of Cape Girardeau passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, surrounded by his loving family after bravely enduring an extended illness.
He was born in Cairo, Illinois, at St. Mary Hospital on Aug. 1, 1947, to John H. and Margaret Jordan Campbell.
Raised on the five-generation family farm on County Line Road in Alexander County, Illinois, Phil's roots ran deep in the soil of his community. He graduated from Anna Jonesboro High School in 1965 and furthered his education at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
Phil's dedication to service led him to join the U.S. Naval Reserve, where he courageously served in Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin.
On June 23, 1973, he married the love of his life, Barbara Bowers, and together they shared 50 years of a steadfast and loving marriage.
For 29 years, Phil contributed his talents to Procter & Gamble, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many colleagues who became lifelong friends. A true enthusiast, Phil's passion for automobiles, motorcycles and the antique tractor his grandfather acquired in 1959 was evident throughout his life. Over the years, he owned numerous cars and motorcycles, embarking on countless adventures with Barbara and friends to races, swap meets, museums and race tracks. Motorcycle trips to various western destinations with cherished friends brought him great joy.
Phil was a member of AMA, Penton Owners Group, Ferrari Club of St. Louis and Egypt Mills Tractor Club. Phil never met a stranger and appreciated people from all walks of life.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; son, Christopher, of St. Petersburg, Florida; sister-in-law, Kimberly Schulz; nephew, James Schulz, of Cincinnati; aunts and uncle-in-law; and numerous cousins and friends.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margaret Campbell, and his brother, Stanley Campbell.
Phil's legacy lives on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, adventurous spirit and zest for life will be deeply missed, but the impact of his love and generosity will resonate in the hearts of family and friends forever.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Nov. 27, at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.
Funeral will immediately follow at noon, with the Rev. Donny Ford officiating. Burial will be at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
Connect with the Southeast Missourian Newsroom:
For corrections to this story or other insights for the editor, click here. To submit a letter to the editor, click here. To learn about the Southeast Missourian’s AI Policy, click here.