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R. Steele Phillips, former director of music at NBSD R. Steele "Russ" Phillips, a former music teacher in the North Babylon Schools, died December 8, 2001 in the Pardee Care Center in Hendersonville, North Carolina. He was 90 years old. Mr. Phillips was the son of the late Guy Clark Phillips and Emma Steele Phillips of Auburn, Maine. He attended the Eastman School of Music of the University of Rochester, New York and earned a bachelor of music degree in Public School Music, majoring in instrumental and choral music with an association minor in piano, organ and voice. Graduate credits were earned at Teachers’ College Columbia University, Julilliard School of Music, New York University and New York State College for Teachers in Albany, New York. He earned his master of science degree in music at C. W. Post College of Long Island University. In 1960, he moved to Long Island and joined the North Babylon School System, organizing the music program for ten schools with a staff of 26 instructors. He was a member of the New York State School Music Association during his full career and served on the association’s official board. He was accredited adjudicator of bands, orchestras, choruses, small ensembles and soloists. While residing in Babylon, he was a member of the James Street Players and was music director of several Broadway musicals, including The King and I, Brigadoon, Sound of Music, Hello Dolly and others. He was also a supply organist for many local churches in the area. A veteran of World War II, he was a First Lieutenant and executive director of Company L, 1st Regiment, New York State Guard when the local National Guard was federalized. In 1967, he retired to Hendersonville and became engaged in volunteer work. He was executive secretary of the Henderson County Mental Health Association in its formative years and publicity chairman for the Red Cross and Lions Club. He was also a member of the Hendersonville Chorale for nine years and was elected to the Second Wind Hall of Fame. He worshiped at the First United Methodist Church in Hendersonville. Mr. Phillips is survived by his wife Marion Karr Phillips; two daughters, Joanne Wilkerson of Hendersonville and Deborah Esposito of Rocky Point. A graveside service was conducted at Shepherd Memorial Park. Arrangements were under the direction of Thos. Shepherd and Son Funeral directors, Hendersonville. Memorial contributions in Mr. Phillips’ name may be made to the music ministry of First United Methodist Church, 204 6th Ave., West, Hendersonville, NC 28791.
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