Robert F. Phillips of Malden, MA was born on April 20, 1945 to John and Rose Phillips of Boston, MA.

Bob grew up in Chelsea, but his favorite place to spend summers was Revere Beach, where his grandmother owned what was then called a "bathhouse". Many carefree days were spent playing with his brother John and cousins Anita and Tom. The Revere Beach amusements were in their heyday and Bob delighted in recalling the Cyclone, the tallest roller coaster at the time of its construction in 1925. A talented dancer, Bob could often be found at the beach dance halls on Friday nights. He often reminisced about his "doo-wop" dancing days, saying they were some of his happiest memories.

Many interests and accomplishments marked Bob's life. He excelled in several sports, including weightlifting, bodybuilding, boxing, and martial arts. His greatest passion was Taekwondo, which he shared with his cousin, Gerry, and brothers, John and Mike. An exceptional fighter, he won many tournaments and earned the title of United States Champion in 1975 at the games in Korea. He proudly displayed his many trophies and the gold medal. https://taekwondohalloffame.com/museum/1975-usa-aau-national-gold-medal/

In later years, he joined a bowling league at Town Line Luxury Lanes, where he practiced diligently and became a valued member of his team each season.

His career as an automotive assembler and manual painter at General Motors was deeply rewarding, and he often marveled at the precision and speed with which cars were produced. Later in life, he combined his love of movies with an enjoyable job at the Revere Showcase Cinema.

A longtime member of N.A., Bob was a valued sponsor to many members across multiple groups. Meetings were an important part of his life and his influence on others was significant. Many of his fellow sojourners looked up to him as a "power of example".

A man of deep faith, Bob's first priority was to his Savior, Jesus Christ. He became a follower of Christ in 1986 and was baptized in the ocean at Singing Sands to demonstrate his commitment to the Lord. He joined Boston Worship Center in the North End and served faithfully for more than 35 years in many roles, including greeter (always in his suits, looking very sharp and handsome), home & hospital visitation, handyman, custodian, and countless other acts of service. He was quick to help people move, provide rides, and lend a hand in any way needed. He once carried a refrigerator up a flight of stairs strapped to his back! A man of his word, when Bob promised something, he could always be counted on to follow through. He diligently studied at the Berean School of the Bible, and through daily Bible reading, developed a strong grasp of Scripture. He enthusiastically shared the Good News of Jesus and his testimony of how God dramatically changed his life.

His faith was his first priority and family was a close second. His family tree is like a mosaic, many colorful pieces coming together into a unified work of art. His brothers were John, "B", Peter, and Michael. He was part of an extended family that included cousins Tom, Anita and Gerry. Family gatherings featured generous spreads of traditional Armenian food, card games, and watching sports - special times he often reminisced about.

In 1981, Bob married Maria, and was deeply proud when their son Scott was born the following year. Scott was the apple of his eye. He also embraced his role as stepfather to Maria's daughter, Maria. In 1998, Bob married Leslie and happily became stepfather to her children, Elizabeth and Eric. They made their home in Malden, where the children were raised. He had the pleasure of also helping to raise Leslie's niece, Rachel, who came to live with them in 2011 at age 14. She became like a daughter to him. An exceptional provider and protector, Bob was deeply conscientious about ensuring his family was cared for. His careful stewardship of finances made his generosity possible, something he considered a meaningful hallmark of his life. His grandchildren were the icing on the cake. Blake, Brooklyn, Josephine, Mia, Evan, and Leo brought him immense joy. His nieces and nephews were also a source of great happiness. He always looked forward to special occasions with family and saved every memento from those events.

The story of Bob's life would not be complete without mentioning his love for the cats in his life. Over 28 years in Malden, he and Leslie rescued and adopted many cats. He had a tender heart for all animals, but was especially attached to his kitties.

Bob led a full life and in his final days was surrounded by family and friends, something his team at MGH ICU noted as a reflection of how deeply he was loved. He transitioned from earth to Heaven peacefully, fully prepared and excited to meet his Savior and Lord.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Leslie; his son, Scott Phillips and his wife, Krysten, of Middleboro; his step-daughter, Maria, of Middleboro; his step-daughter, Elizabeth Favini and her husband, Rolland, of Orange County, CA; and his step-son, Eric Favini and his wife, Donna, of Billerica. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Blake, Brooklyn, Mia, Evan, Leo, Josephine and Bryce; his brothers, Peter Phillips and his wife, Kim, of Malden, and Michael Kalenderian and his wife, Gina, of Lancaster; and eight nieces and nephews: Rachel, Natalie, Dakota, Jill, Anna, Alexandria, Ashley, and Rob; and many cousins. He was predeceased by his brothers, John Fallon and Robert St. John.

Family and friends will honor and remember Bob's life by gathering together at the Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway, Somerville, on Friday, May 8, 2026. Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service beginning at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bob's name may be made to Boston Harbor Community Church at bostonharbor.cc/give/ and Mass General Hospital at massgeneral.org/about/support .

If you are unable to attend the memorial service at 5:00PM. Please join via zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89104238706?pwd=vrp9WcLJLOq2bS8RhemKQzyVTBm8a2.1