Phil Little Jr.

Phil Jonas Little, Jr., was born on October 4, 1931 at West Baptist Hospital in Abilene, Texas. His parents were Phil Jonas Little, Sr. and Lillian Mae Ashburn Little. Phil attended public school in Abilene, graduating in 1949. He then served for three years in the United States Navy on the USS Prairie in Japan and on the west coast during the Korean War. Following his Navy service, he and his father opened L&L Machine Shop in Abilene. He was a highly skilled machinist. Phil enjoyed sports, especially the Dallas Cowboys. He was a humble man with a servant's heart. He never lacked for words of encouragement to others. He and his close friend of many years, Vida White, were active in Church Builders organizations, building churches in Texas, Kentucky, Missouri, and Louisiana. They enjoyed many adventures and travels together. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Rule for a number of years.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and two nephews; Dale Browning and Gary Browning; and by his close friend Vida White.

Phil is survived by his sister, Mary Alice Browning, and brother-in-law Fred Browning of Lovington, New Mexico; one niece, Cynthia Nitschke; and two great nieces, Caroline Browning, and Becca Browning. Phil is also survived by long time friends, Jackye and Eddie Leonard.

His service will be held at First Baptist Church of Rule, Texas on Friday, January 20, 2023, at 11:00AM, with Pastor Scott Hensley officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park in Abilene, Texas, (5750 Hwy 277 S), under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes. A visitation is planned at 10:00 AM, Friday, January 20, 2023, at the First Baptist Church, 1001 Union Ave, Rule Texas.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Phil's name to First Baptist Church, 1001 Union Ave., Rule, Texas 79547.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com