The Phillips lived in Beckley for 48 years where John worked as a salesman and Edna Mae taught physical education at Woodrow Wilson high School from 1967 to 1977, initiating and coaching interscholastic teams in volleyball and basketball. After retiring she spent nine years as the first female member of the WVSSAC Board of Appeals. Eventually, they relocated to Florida to live near their daughter. They were not West Virginia born, nor did they die in the Mountain State. However, they considered Beckley, WV, their home and they wished to leave a lasting gift that would benefit this community forever more. This was accomplished with assets from a trust. Income is used to benefit the Beckley Presbyterian Church.