Phillip Ray Fowler, 74, of Searcy, Arkansas, passed away on January 30, 2026, at White County Medical Center in Searcy, Arkansas. Born May 31, 1951, Phillip lived a life marked by loyalty, humor, and a heart that never met a stranger.

He is preceded in death by his father, George R. Fowler; his mother, Beatrice I. Davis Fowler; and his sisters, Bonnie Sue Fowler and Marilyn B. Fowler Redding.

Phillip is survived by his loving wife, Joann Fowler of McRae. He is also survived by his brothers, Robert Eugene Fowler (Sandy) of Walterboro, South Carolina, and George Mac Fowler of Tool, Texas; and his sister, Patricha Renee Fowler McCutcheon of Lonoke.

Phillip leaves behind a large and deeply loved family: sons Jeffery Ray Fowler of Jacksonville, Arkansas; Robert Wayne Fowler (Laura) of Ward, Arkansas; Scott Allen Fowler (Becky) of Cabot, Arkansas; Robert Childers (Tina) of Searcy, Arkansas; Randy Childers of Wichita, Kansas; and Rusty Childers (Alicia) of Searcy, Arkansas.

He was blessed with 14 grandchildren — Diana Young, JJ Fowler, Dustin Fowler, Corey Fowler, Halie Moore, Maddie Penrod, Hunter Fowler, Scott Childers, Samantha Childers, Levi Childers, Samantha Childers, Katlyn Childers, Destiny Childers, and Christian Childers — along with 13 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends who adored him.

Phillip wore many hats throughout his life. In the 1970s, he served as a deputy under his father in Holly Grove, a role that reflected his steady nature and sense of duty. He later worked as both a salesman and a painter, trades that fit his easygoing personality and his ability to connect with anyone he met.

He was truly one of a kind. Phillip loved Willie Nelson, never turned down a good game of Spades, and was the partner everyone wanted at the table. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, could glide across a dance floor with a smooth two-step, and carried a smile that rarely left his face. He never had a bad word to say about anyone — well, except when it came to his unrelenting opinions about the POTUS… or not. If you know, you know.

Phillip’s warmth, humor, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed. His legacy lives on in the stories he leaves behind, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave so freely.

Fly high, Phillip. You were loved, you will not be forgotten, and you will be greatly missed.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com