LaVerne Phillips

LaVerne Phillips went home to be with the Lord on June 30, 2026, at the age of 78. He was born in Haywood County on September 1, 1947, one of five children born to the late Sam and Thelma Green Phillips.

LaVerne was a 1967 graduate of Tuscola High School. Following graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving four years with multiple deployments to the Republic of Vietnam and attaining the rank of Sergeant.

Following his military service, LaVerne returned home and dedicated a lifetime of service to the citizens of Haywood County. He began his law enforcement career with the Town of Canton before being sworn in as a police officer with the Town of Hazelwood Police Department. He later left Hazelwood as Assistant Chief to join the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office. He was subsequently appointed as a Magistrate Judge before returning to the Sheriff’s Office to serve as Chief Jailer, where he remained until his retirement in 2002 after 30 years of dedicated law enforcement service.

Throughout his distinguished career serving the citizens of Haywood County, “Big Verne,” as he was affectionately known, treated everyone with dignity, compassion, and fairness. He was known for helping people from all walks of life, never distinguishing between a stranger and a friend.

Beyond his exemplary career in public service, LaVerne had a profound love for the mountains, finding great peace and joy in the outdoors. He frequently spent his spare time camping, fishing, or simply “loafering.” He had a deep affection for German Shepherds, whose loyalty and companionship brought him great joy over the years. LaVerne also shared an especially close bond with his twin sister, LaMarcia, a relationship he treasured throughout his life. Above all else, he cherished every moment spent with his family and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, LaVerne was preceded in death by his brothers, Johnny and Charles Phillips; and his sisters, LaMarcia Messer and Marie Warren.

LaVerne is survived by his sons, Mark Phillips (Elyse) and Micah Phillips (Sara); and his grandson, William Samuel Phillips.