Carmath A. Phillips, "Barney", "Dad", "Pawpaw", age 88, of Alexander, passed peacefully from this world on September 9, 2025, surrounded by his 3 daughters, and other family and friends, to a joyful reunion in Heaven with his wife of 58 years, Betty, and other family members who preceded him in death. Born on August 15, 1937 in Benton, Arkansas to Kermit and Lillian Phillips, he was the 4th child of 6, and the oldest son of the family.

Carmath is survived by his 3 daughters, Tonia (Chuck) Ray, Shana (Chad)Thornton, and Erica (Robby) Bradshaw, siblings Barbara Rogers, Charles (Glenda) Phillips, and Tracy Phillips; grandchildren Chad (Rachel), Jordan (Alisha), Jess (Myranda), Chase (Mackenzie), Katrina (Drake), 8 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a special friend and companion, Janice Holder, who has been a true blessing in his life the past couple of years.

Carmath was a proud Army veteran, serving for 2 years and receiving a Good Conduct Medal. He served as Transportation Coordinator at the Arkansas Highway Department for many years before retiring. He was an avid hunter, and loved to squirrel hunt accompanied by his dog, Slim. Fridays would many times find him at Riverside Grocery for Catfish Fridays. Saturday nights often he would be found at the Senior Adult Center dancing and enjoying the company of many of his friends. He will be dearly missed by so many friends and family, but we take comfort in knowing he is now walking the streets of gold with our Heavenly Father, and all of his friends and family who were there before him.

The family would like to thank Encore Medical Center staff and doctors who took such wonderful care of Dad during his illness. They were truly amazing.

Visitation will be at Ashby Funeral Home in Benton on Tuesday, September 16, at 9 am with funeral to follow at 10 am, then interment at Ten Mile Cemetery on Highway 70 in Lonsdale.

Pallbearers will be his 4 grandsons, Chad Ray, Jordan Ray, Jess Ray, Chase Thornton, his nephew Casey Phillips, and great nephew Cody Phillips. Honorary pallbearers will be Cody Bradshaw, and Drake Lackey.