LANCASTER, SC – Mr. Ernest "Ernie" Douglas Phillips, age 81, stepped through the gates of heaven on Monday, January 5, 2026. He was born November 12, 1944, a son of the late Rev. Oria Phillips and the late Sue Lee Broome Phillips and was the loving husband of Peggy Bundy Phillips. Ernie worked faithfully for over 30 years at Spring "Grace" Bleachery as an engineer in the sewing department, where he was known for his strong work ethic, skill, and willingness to help others. A true jack-of-all-trades, he could fix just about anything and never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

A proud sports enthusiast, he loved attending sporting events at Buford Middle School and Buford High School, always supporting the Yellow Jackets. His greatest joy was watching his son, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews participate in sports. He was a true sportsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting, spending many cherished hours on the water with his brother, Fred.

Ernie found peace and joy in working in his yard and gardening, a passion he especially loved sharing with the love of his life, Peggy. Together, they enjoyed many activities, including summer trips to the mountains to listen to gospel music—memories that will be treasured forever.

A man of deep faith, he began every morning with Bible study and prayer. He was a devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and greatly enjoyed attending church and gospel singings. His faith guided his life and was evident in the way he loved and cared for others.

Ernie proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years. Above all, he was the epitome of a family man, deeply loving his family and cherishing every moment spent with them.

Ernie will be remembered for his faith, kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family.

Ernie is survived by his wife of 49 years, Peggy Phillips, his grandchildren, Tyler Douglas (Lisa), and Hayley McCowan (Tad); his great-grandchildren, Faith and Travis Douglas; five siblings, Mary Lee Catoe, Frank Phillips (Marion), Fred Phillips (Ruth), Larry Phillips, and Pam Melton; and many special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his stepson, Dennis Douglas; his grandson, Ethan Douglas; his parents, Rev. Oria and Sue Lee Phillips; and three siblings, Wylie Phillips, Annie Lou Tee Catoe, and Farris Phillips.

The Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be 3:00pm Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at The Chapel of Burgess Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Dale Walters and Rev. Patrick Blackmon. Burial will follow at a later date.

The family will receive friends from 2:00pm to 3:00pm, one hour prior to the service at Burgess Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, 1841 N Rocky River Rd Lancaster, SC 29720 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.