Donnie Lee Phillips passed from this life June 11, 2026, in Purcell, at the age of 65. A private family memorial service will be planned for a later date, following Donnie’s request, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Donnie was born February 26, 1961, in Springdale, Arkansas, and raised in Oklahoma, living a life marked by gentleness and kindness.
After being diagnosed with stage three lung cancer in February 2026, Donnie fought with unwavering courage and grace. Until the end, his sharp wit and humor was ever present, but above all else was his kindness. Donnie had a soft, gentle heart that will forever be remembered and cherished.
He loved animals and lost his beloved dog of 14 years, Chichi, earlier this year. Donnie was always artistic and very creative from a young age. He did amazing wood carvings and truly loved doing anything creative. Donnie also had a green thumb and loved growing and sharing plants with others. We will forever treasure his talent and art pieces he shared with us.
Donnie was preceded in death by his mother, Winona Selement; his sister, Ellen Phillips; and his nephew, Michael Phillips.
Survivors include his sister, Katy VanSchuyver; his brothers, Tony Selement and wife, Pam, and Dean Phillips and wife, Jeannie; his nieces, Sarah VanSchuyver and Dorothy Opdyke; his nephews, Steven Phillips, Brian Daugherty, Jason Daugherty and Daniel VanSchuyver.