Ernest Franklin Phillips, age 70, went to be with the Lord on November 25, 2010. He was born October 25, 1940 in Fork Mountain, TN. Ernie's life cannot be boiled down to one job or even one passion. He was everything from a salesman and coal miner, to a contractor and developer, to a publisher and editor of papers such as the Appalachian Observer and Tri-County Times. He served in many positions such as Anderson County Commissioner, Criminal Investigator, Mayor of Oliver Springs, Anderson County Water Board Member and so much more than cannot even be summarized in this small announcement of his passing. Ernest was charitable to many organizations but mainly charitable in private ways, never saying no to those in need of help whether the needs were financial or the needs involved his work. He will be remembered most of all for never being lukewarm�for always taking a stand.

He is preceded in death by his parents Lonas and Eva Jones Phillips; brother, Robert Dean Phillips.

He is survived by sons Ernest F. "Lin" Phillips, II and wife Pam; Lonas Denton "Denny" Phillips; daughter Theresa E. "Terry" Frank and husband Lee. Grandchildren are Leah Phillips; Atticus, Davis and Avery Frank; Ernest F. "Trey" Phillips III, as well as a host of family and special friends.

Family will receive friends Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010 from 5-7:00 PM at Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Roger Lloyd officiating. Internment will be private. Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. www.holleygamblefh.com.