Edwin D. Phillips

OBITUARY

It is with great reverence that we announce the passing of Edwin D. Phillips, Edwin passed away peacefully listening to Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong on April 1st, 2025 at the age of 83 surrounded by his loving family.Life Edwin D. Phillips was born on October 26th 1941 in Cleveland, OH. He was born to Rose Andonian (Toll) and Edwin D. Phillips. He was raised by Harry Toll from young age. Edwin grew up in East Cleveland/Collinwood Area. He Graduated from Edward F Brush High school in 1960, and then entered the US Navy in 1961 serving with Naval Air Command in the Pacific as an Avionics Technician. After service Edwin married his wife of 58 years, Marie (Ciulla). Edwin then began his career with The Ohio Bell Telephone Company/AT&T in Telephone repair and eventually as a Union Leader.Edwin is survived by His Wife Marie Phillips, Sons Guy and Rusty Phillips (Lianne Mantione), Brother Barry Toll, Nieces Lori Bernards (Jeremy) and Cindy Ciulla, Nephew Chris Ciulla (Denise) and many great nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Father & Step Father, Brothers Dave and Bruce “Utah” Phillips and Sister Roxanne Toll.Career Edwin Served for 24 years as President of the CWA (Communication Workers of America) Local 4340 in Cleveland, Ohio. He represented and bargained many National and Local Contracts that improved the pay and working conditions for thousands of Union Members.Edwin’s impact in the labor movement was profound, and he was known for his innovative thinking, patience, integrity, and diplomacy. These qualities and his ability to inspire those around him gandered the respect and love of many. He worked to improve the lives of everyone he touched. He truly cared!Personal Life Beyond his professional life Edwin loved his family and friends Deeply. He also enjoyed Golf (especially his hole in one), Cleveland Sports, Jazz Music and Cooking. He loved deer camp and weekly lunches with his friends whom he considered family. He loved reading the newspaper with coffee in the morning. Edwin’s interests were wide, but most of all if he could just have a drink with friends and loved ones, he considered it a great day. He loved people most of all. He truly cheered for everyone’s success and last but not least loved to laugh with every bit of his soul.Legacy Edwin D. Phillips will be remembered for his kind heart, his brilliant mind, and his unwavering dedication to his family, friends and Union. His legacy will be all the lives that are better for having known him and benefited from the years of hard work and dedication to improving the lives of everyone he touched.A celebration of Edwin’s life will be announced at a later date as he donated his earthly body to Case Western Reserve Medical School to further help future generations and improve their lives.Rest in Peace Edwin Your memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him.