Etimlin “Tim” Phillips, 59, of Maryville, TN passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 after an extended illness.

Tim was born on September 10, 1966, to George and Carolyn Phillips in Harriman, TN. Tim graduated from Harriman High School in 1985. He led a simple life: never complex and always with good, honest intentions.

Tim worked for many years for TN Roofing Company and other roofing companies as a machine operator. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 917. He spent numerous years working at X10, Y12, and K15 repairing the roofs of many buildings. Tim enjoyed spending time repairing things such as motorcycles, lawn mowers, and vehicles. He could take anything apart and put it back together, usually with a grin and a story along the way. He was practical to his core, but never dull. Everything with him came with a spark of humor. A loyal friend, a fierce protector, and a dependable source of strength, Tim was the kind of person everyone wanted to be around.

The main joys of Tim’s life were his grandchildren. They were his greatest joy and proudest achievement. He loved watching them play sports, taking them fishing, and spending time with them. Papaw, as he was affectionately called by his grandchildren, was and always will be a huge part of their lives. They each have their own special memories of him and what he meant to them.

Tim was preceded in death by his father, George Phillips; and sister, Sonya Phillips.

He is survived by his wife, Vikki Phillips; mother, Carolyn Phillips; daughters, Autumn Jackson and Amber Phillips; son, Etimlin Phillips; brothers, Edward Phillips, Ephraim Phillips, and Leon Phillips; sisters, Gina Soloman, Victoria Thompson; grandchildren, Damarion Jackson, Devin, Zae’Vin, and Amari Bertram, Legacye Love, Cayden Pesterfield, Taelyn Scott, and Kaleigha,

Bryson, Kreed, and Tyson Phillips, and a new grandson to arrive in August; and a beloved extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 31 from 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM at the MLK, JR Center in Alcoa, TN. In honor of Tim and his simple down to earth ways, please come as you are and dress casual.