Philip Earl Campbell, age 79, of Adrian, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord on March 12, 2026.
Phil was born on June 12, 1946, to Evert and Mina (Wright) Campbell. He lived a life defined by dedication to his family, curiosity for learning, a deep appreciation for music, and love for His Savior.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Kathy Campbell; his children, Angela (Gary) Smelser and Benjamin (Amy) Campbell; and his cherished grandchildren, Taylor Smelser, Zachary (Jayme) Smelser, Rachael (Ryan) Roggie, and Dakota Campbell. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Lucas Campbell and Dawson Smelser, who brought him great joy.
Phil worked for General Motors in Pontiac, Michigan, where he dedicated 31 years of service before retiring. Outside of his work for GM, he pursued many intellectual and creative interests. He enjoyed playing the trumpet, doing family historical research, studying theology, and learning Koine Greek – the original language of the New Testament. He loved spending time with his family and having important conversations with his grandchildren as they grew up.
Phil especially loved Michigan’s UP and looked forward to vacationing in and around Lake Superior and Marquette – never tiring of the wind and waves and searching for agates.
Phil will be remembered for his devotion to family, his enthusiastic spirit, and the many ways he shared his interests and knowledge with others. He especially enjoyed sharing the Word of God with friends and family and is now enjoying his reward in Heaven. “For no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor mind can imagine, what God has prepared for those who love Him,” I Cor. 2:9.
He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
The family will receive friends for visitation at the Marry Funeral Home in Tecumseh on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 am until the funeral service, which begins at 11:30 am. Rev. Lloyd Estep will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Brookside Cemetery in Tecumseh.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Live Global (https://liveglobal.org/team-member/john-becky/). John and Becky work to rescue homeless children at risk of gang violence, trafficking, disease, and starvation, and to enable national believers to be financially and spiritually equipped to care for abandoned children.