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Harold ''Jiggs'' Phillips

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation is mourning the death of Tribal Council member, Harold ''Jiggs'' Phillips, of Westville. The Cherokee Nation flag is flying at half-staff out of honor and respect to the man who gave so much of his life to service for the Cherokee Nation.

"He was a great statesman of the Cherokee Nation and a humble servant of its people," said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. "His contributions are valued and appreciated and he will be sorrowfully missed."

Phillips served the Cherokee Nation as a Tribal Council member for District 2 in Adair County for more than 15 years.

Phillips had a long history of service to his country and community, as well as, the Cherokee Nation. After completing his bachelor's degree in education at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he served two years active duty as an aviation machinist. He then returned to Westville and began working as the high school head football coach while spending another six years in the United States Navy Reserve. He pursued his education even further and attended the University of Arkansas during the summer months and eventually earned a master's degree in public school administration.

Funeral services for Harold "Jiggs" Phillips will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 10, at the Westville High School Auditorium. Burial will follow at the Westville City Cemetery.

Harold "Jiggs" Phillips is survived by his wife, Virginia Phillips, one daughter Deana Cooper, two sons, Clark Phillips and Stan Howard Phillips, one sister Lucille Matthews, one brother, Tommy Phillips, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.