from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Paul J. Phillips, DVM, 93, of Batavia, N.Y., died at his home March 10, 2018.

He was born in Chicago on Dec. 20, 1924, to the late Edward and Irene (Walsh) Phillips. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of over 60 years, Dottie; and his son, Michael (John Styliaris, fiance).

When a man is a great father, it outshines every other major accomplishment in his life, and Dr. Phillips had many. He was born in Chicago on Dec. 20, 1924. A World War II veteran, “Doc” to all that knew him, grew up in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he met the love of his life, Dorothy T. Somers. With Dottie in tow, he went to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 1954.

He was quickly scooped up by Drs. Perry Combs and Rodney Forsyth in Batavia, which would become his “forever” home. After the passing of both Drs. Combs and Forsyth, he continued the veterinary practice solo. He also founded Genesee Valley Farm, where he could fulfill his passion for Standardbred racehorses. He continued practicing until his battle with throat cancer in 2013 forced him to retire.

He will be well remembered for his wit, compassion and honesty for all who would walk into his vet practice, or interact with him at their farms.

He is survived by his devoted children, Paul (Lisa Bosley), Edward (Doreen Turnbull), Anne Phillips, Constance Chisolm, Daniel (Jacquie) and Katherine (Robert) Brown; grandchildren, Jessica, Rachael, Ned, Mikala, Craig, Peter, Paul, Adam, Matthew, Katrina, Sydney, Samantha, Phillip, Natalie and Brendan; many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and a sister, Helen Huley.

There will be no prior calling hours as his wishes were for no visitation. A Memorial Mass will be scheduled for a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Volunteers For Animals (www.vol4animals.org), 3841 West Main St. Rd., Batavia, NY 14020 or the Annual Fund at Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine in memory of Dr. Paul J. Phillips at http://bit.ly/2FwgihA or Box 39, Ithaca, NY 14853.