Wayne David Phillips

Wayne David Phillips, 83, born on September 22, 1942, to Earl David and Irene Phillips, passed away on May 15, 2026, and went to Heaven surrounded by the love of his family.

Wayne was a proud veteran of the United States military, and he carried the values of service, honor, and quiet strength with him throughout his life. Above all else, Wayne was a cowboy through and through, living a life defined by hard work, integrity, and a deep love for the western way of life.

He dedicated much of his life to the rodeo world, serving as president of a rodeo association and earning respect as a champion steer wrestler. His leadership, grit and passion left a lasting mark on the community he loved so deeply. He was admired not just for what he achieved, but for the way he carried himself while doing it. Wayne also had a true gift with horses. He spent years training race horses with patience, instinct, and dedication, and saw that those horses not only won, but set four track records, an extraordinary accomplishment that reflected his knowledge and love of horses.

More than anything, Wayne loved his family. He shared 64 beautiful years of marriage with his wife, Linda, who stood beside him throughout every season of life. He was a devoted father and grandfather who never missed a rodeo, cutting horse show, or a ballgame, always in their corner, cheering them on and showing up with steady love and support. Together, they built a family rooted in love and loyalty.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Phillips; his daughters, Lainie Whitmire and Jamie Phillips; his grandchildren, Lauren Whitmire, Kori Jo Keepes, and Kash Keepes; and his brother, Dwight Phillips, and wife, Debbie, and their children.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Jerri Ann Sims.

Wayne’s presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in every story told, every horse he trained, and every life he touched.

The family of Mr. Phillips has entrusted Forever Memories Funeral Services, Inc., 463505 Hwy 101, Sallisaw, Oklahoma, with arrangements. In place of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Blue Ribbons Downs Race Track Chaplaincy. No services have been planned.