The Rev. Lloyd Austin Phillips, 82, of Niles, died Saturday morning, May 1, 2010 unexpectedly but of natural causes at his daughter’s home in Buchanan.

The Rev. Phillips was born on March 28, 1928 in Utica, N.Y. to Harold H. and Margaret P. (Jenkins) Phillips. He graduated from high school in Ilion, N.Y. in 1946 and received his bachelor of arts degree from Houghton College in Houghton New York in 1951.

Graduating from Calvary Seminary in Grand Rapids in 1958, Phillips continued his education in philosophical theology in 1978 as well as numerous summer schools and workshops throughout his ministry.

Phillips was pastor at United Methodist churches in East Otto, N.Y. From 1950-53; Grand Rapids from 1953-61; Bronson, Mich. from 1961-69; Stevensville from 1969-79, Lansing from 1979-84; and retired from Wesley United Methodist Church in Niles, having served from 1984-1991.

During his ministry, Phillips served on countless committees, boards and held numerous offices and positions, most recently with the Optimist Club where he was chief founder of the Decatur Optimist Club and was the distinguished president of the Noon Optimist Club of Niles from 1991-92.

After his retirement he published four books and has received numerous distinguished honors including a special resolution from the Ingham County Board of Commissioners for help in making Ingham County a better place to live and work among ethnic people.

On June 19, 1948 in Washington Penn., he married his beloved mate, Jean Scott, who preceded him in death on Feb. 21, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his son, David L. Phillips, who died July 15, 1997.

The Rev. Phillips is survived by his children, Dr. John Lloyd (Linda) Phillips, of Fayetteville, N.C. and Linda M. (Jim) Baker, of Buchanan; four grandchildren, Jeffery, Andrew, Matt, Chelsea; five step-grandchildren, Jimmy, Jody, Donna, Frank and Paul; and six step-great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at Wesley United Methodist Church in Niles with the Rev. Edward H. Slate officiating.

Committal rites will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday at Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles. Contributions in memory of the Rev. Phillips may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church Missions, the Noon Optimist Club of Niles or donor’s choice.