David Earl Phillips

David Earl Phillips, 74, of McGregor, Texas, formerly of Scott County, Mississippi, passed away on July 12, 2026. David was born on May 22, 1952, in Meridian, Mississippi, to Ellie Phillips, Sr. and Avis Marie Phillips.

David was preceded in death by the love of his life, Glenda Calhoun Phillips; his brother, Ellie Phillips, Jr.; his parents, Ellie Phillips, Sr. and Avis Marie Phillips; sisters-in-law, Jamis Magee, Nett McClain, and Sara Currie; brother-in-law, Jack Calhoun; and a special family friend, Grace Faulkner.  He is survived by his daughter, Gennie Phillips Taylor, and husband, Steven, of McGregor, Texas; his beloved granddaughter and the light of his life, Mallory Grace Taylor; his sisters-in-law, Patricia Phillips of Morton, Mississippi, and Myra Harvey of Lake, Mississippi; along with a host of cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

David’s passion for floral design began long before opening his own business. During his years with Greenbrook Flowers in the Jackson metropolitan area, he earned a reputation for his exceptional creativity, artistry, and attention to detail. He contributed to some of the region’s most elaborate weddings and special events and was a member of the floral design team that created the Christmas décor for the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion, an opportunity that reflected the high level of talent, artistry, and professionalism he had earned within Mississippi’s floral community.

Building on that experience, David and his beloved wife, Glenda, went on to own and operate Designs by David Florist in Forest, Mississippi, for many years. Together, they built a successful business, becoming a trusted part of the lives of countless families throughout Central Mississippi. Through David’s extraordinary artistry, he helped celebrate weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and the arrival of new babies, while also providing comfort through thoughtfully designed floral tributes during times of loss. His work became woven into the fabric of the communities he faithfully served, touching generations of families with both beauty and compassion.

David’s passion, talent, and artistic vision earned him statewide and national recognition. He was a dedicated supporter of the Mississippi Floral Association, serving as a former president and member of its Board of Directors for many years. He also served on the boards of the Central Allied Floral Association and the Mississippi Teleflora Unit. Honored as Mississippi Designer of the Year in 1973, David was later selected to represent the state in the prestigious FTD American Cup Competition, a distinction reserved for the nation’s finest floral designers. His leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence left an enduring impact on the floral profession across Mississippi and beyond.

A lifelong learner, David became a Mississippi Master Gardener and completed jeweler’s school in Detroit, Michigan. His creativity extended beyond flowers, and he was also known for breeding Siamese cats and Shih Tzu puppies, a reflection of his lifelong love for pets. In his free time, David was an avid antique enthusiast who could often be found exploring estate sales, flea markets, and antique shops in search of unique treasures.

Memorial donations can be made to the Souenlovie Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 71 County Road 324, Enterprise, MS 39330.