Phillip Lee Sandusky, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away at the age of 71 on February 22, 2024, in Freelandville, Indiana. Born on July 14, 1952, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, Phillip grew up to be a man of faith and integrity, touching the lives of many with his kindness and compassion.
Phillip was a cherished member of his community and a beacon of light for his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife of nearly 53 years, Ada Mae (Boothe) Sandusky. Their union, which began on a beautiful Saturday in May 1971, was blessed with two loving sons, Brian Sandusky of Freelandville, IN, and Mark Sandusky (Michele) of Dugger, IN. He was a doting grandfather to two granddaughters, Cierra Wolfe (Brandon) of Carlisle, IN, and Abigail Sandusky of Dugger, IN, and a proud great-grandfather to Constance Sandusky of Carlisle, IN.
Phillip is also survived by an extensive circle of siblings, including Gary Sandusky and Ray Sandusky of Paragould, AR, Terry Sandusky of Antlers, OK, Jackson Sandusky of Little Rock, AR, and sisters Charlene Dowdy and Anita Gellert of Jonesboro, AR, Betty Brown of Light, AR, and Kay Tilley of Warren, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his mother Doris "Lee" Sandusky and his father Vernon Sandusky of Rector, AR, and his sister Sandra McQuay of Windom, TX.
An erudite scholar, Phillip graduated Magna Cum Laude from both the Oakland City School of Theology with a Master of Divinity and the Christian Theological Seminary with a Masters of Sacred Theology. Deeply committed to his vocation, Phillip served as a Pastor in Arkansas, Illinois, and Indiana; and provided spiritual guidance until his retirement. He also honored his country through three years of dedicated service in the Army. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and Fort Stewart, GA.
Phillip's rich tapestry of life encompassed a love for the outdoors where he found serenity in hunting and seeking out arrowheads, a testament to his inquisitive and adventurous spirit. Yet, one of his greatest joys was the time spent playing and creating memories with his granddaughters, a testament to his loving nature.
The impact of Phillip's warmth and generosity was far-reaching, and those who knew him felt the depth of his love and dedication. His life was a living example of a well-lived faith, marked by devotion to his loved ones and service to others. Phillip Lee Sandusky will be profoundly missed by all, yet his legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Per Phillip’s request, he will be cremated and a service will be held at a later date. Fredrick and Son McClure-Utt Funeral Homes are honored to be entrusted with Mr. Sandusky’s arrangements. The family welcomes online condolences and fond memories to be shared at www.fredrickandson.com.
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