South Otselic - Herbert L. (Bert) Phillips, 62, of South Otselic, NY, died Thursday, April 26, 2012, in the University Hospital, Syracuse.

Bert was born in Watertown on October 12, 1949, the son of the late H. Dyer and Hilda Chase Phillips. He graduated from Carthage Central School in 1967, attended Hartwick College and graduated from Tompkins Cortland Community College in 1983. Bert worked at Sherburne Metal Products in Sherburne and Marietta in Cortland at different points in his life. Bert was an accomplished pianist as a child, and was an avid guitarist as an adult. He played with several artists throughout Central New York and was involved in writing and producing many original pieces. He was frequently found playing for benefits in and around South Otselic. He also enjoyed vacationing on the St. Lawrence River.

He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion.


He is survived by his two daughters: Lindsay Phillips of Mattydale and Robin Phillips of Boston, MA, his mother, Hilda Phillips of Carthage, two brothers: John Phillips of Texas and Daniel Phillips of South Otselic and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, May 4th at 4:00pm at the Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home, Carthage with the Rev. Jane E. Wagner, Pastor of the United Community Church, officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 3-4 pm.


Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bert's name to Transplant Awareness Organization of Greater Rochester , Inc. PO Box 23442, Rochester, New York 14692-3552.

To leave a condolence, go to www.bezanillafh.com.