Robert "Bob" Claude Phillips

Robert “Bob” Phillips passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025 surrounded by precious family and the loves of his life: his wife Opha and daughter Robyn.  Bob lived life to the fullest. Born on Ewa Beach in Hawaii in 1938, Bob witnessed kamikaze pilots attack Navy ships at Pearl Harbor. Later he joined the Marines and served as a flight engineer during the Vietnam War. Somewhere he found time to anchor the offensive line at Louisiana Tech and graduate with an engineering degree. Bob saw even more of the world as an executive at AT&T and Avaya.

He was generous, well-dressed, charming, and just plain fun. He captivated waiters and close friends alike. You couldn’t help but smile when you saw Bob. A hug was coming, and a good time was near.

Bob cherished his older sister, Geraldine Yoder, who passed in 2021. Bob and Geri learned to swim and surf in the Waikiki Natatorium from legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. Bob loved to tell stories of his youth in Hawaii and returned often, although he could never convince his Louisiana family to tolerate Spam, the island delicacy of his childhood. Bob always looked forward to visits with his Hawaiian Ohana (family), his brother Gary Rickard and numerous aunties, uncles and cousins.

Bob loved a road trip. Especially to see the LSU Tigers play. He and Opha spearheaded a fraternity of LSU RV tailgaters, converting Baton Rouge equestrian parking lots into festival stages deep into Louisiana Saturday nights.

Bob adored his family above all else. He was anchored by his wife Opha, daughter Robyn Chauvin, and son Robert Phillips, Jr. His grandchildren Camille Phillips, Cameron Phillips, Christopher Chauvin, Jr., and his namesake, Robert Chauvin brought him so much joy. Visits from the newest addition, great granddaughter, Rory Leilani brightened his later days. He could not find his socks without Shelley Stajduhar, his beloved daughter-in-law. He celebrated LSU wins and cursed LSU losses with Chris Chauvin and Rick Stajduhar, his sons-in-law. Sam Yoder, Geri’s son, was a cherished nephew whose regular visits were always a delight for Bob.

Bob was blessed with loving care as the end drew near. Quincy, his caregiver, poured his heart every day into Bob’s comfort and happiness. Bob’s family is also so thankful for the end-of-life care given by Gentiva Hospice.

A private memorial will be held in Bob’s honor, and he will be laid to rest in his eternal home, Hawaii.