Lexington, Kentucky, January 16, 2026
The Lexington community is mourning the loss of William Woodrow ‘Woody’ Phillips II, a beloved photographer whose work over the years captured numerous local events and celebrations. Known for his friendly demeanor and unique ability to connect with subjects, Phillips left a lasting mark on the city’s visual history. He is survived by his family and will be remembered for his warmth and talent. Funeral services are scheduled for January 20, 2026.
Lexington Community Mourns the Loss of Longtime Photographer Woody Phillips
Lexington, Kentucky – The Lexington community is grieving the loss of William Woodrow “Woody” Phillips II, a cherished photographer who passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 72. Phillips was renowned for his 13-year tenure with Tops in Lexington Magazine, where he captured countless community events, weddings, and local gatherings, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s visual history.
Career Highlights
Phillips’ photography career spanned over a decade, during which he documented thousands of events, earning him a reputation as one of Lexington’s most sought-after photographers. His work was characterized by a unique ability to connect with his subjects, making them feel at ease and bringing out their best in every shot. This personal touch endearingly made him a preferred choice for many, strengthening community ties through shared experiences.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond his professional achievements, Phillips was a dedicated family man. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Cook Phillips; two daughters, Sarah White and Karla Phillips; four grandchildren; and two sisters. A graduate of Anderson County High School and the University of Kentucky, Phillips initially worked as a respiratory therapist before transitioning to photography. His roots in Lexington were reflected in his avid support for the University of Kentucky sports teams and his dedication to maintaining his beautiful lawn, illustrating his commitment to both family and community.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Woody Phillips will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Sand Spring Baptist Church, located at 1616 Harrodsburg Road, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Visitation will take place on Monday, January 19, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and on Tuesday, January 20, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Grove Hill Cemetery in Shelbyville, Kentucky. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory are suggested to the American Heart Association.
Community Impact
Phillips’ passing has left a void in the Lexington community. His warm personality and exceptional photography skills not only captured moments but also created lasting memories for countless individuals and families. His work continues to inspire local photographers, embodying the notion that art can foster community engagement and promote individual achievement. Phillips’ legacy will undoubtedly influence the next generation of artists and encourage an appreciation for the beauty in everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Woody Phillips?
Woody Phillips was a beloved photographer in Lexington, Kentucky, known for his 13-year tenure with Tops in Lexington Magazine, where he captured numerous community events, weddings, and local gatherings.
What were the funeral arrangements for Woody Phillips?
Funeral services for Woody Phillips were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Sand Spring Baptist Church, 1616 Harrodsburg Road, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Visitation took place on Monday, January 19, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and on Tuesday, January 20, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial followed at Grove Hill Cemetery in Shelbyville, Kentucky. Memorial contributions in his memory were suggested to the American Heart Association.
What was Woody Phillips’ background?
Woody Phillips was a graduate of Anderson County High School and the University of Kentucky. Before his photography career, he worked as a respiratory therapist at various hospitals, including Frankfort Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, and UK Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington. He was also an avid University of Kentucky fan and took great pride in maintaining his lawn.
How did Woody Phillips impact the Lexington community?
Woody Phillips left a lasting impact on the Lexington community through his exceptional photography skills and warm personality. He captured countless moments that became cherished memories for many individuals and families, and his work continues to inspire local photographers.
Key Features of Woody Phillips’ Life and Legacy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Career | 13-year tenure with Tops in Lexington Magazine, capturing thousands of community events and weddings. |
| Personal Life | Survived by wife Nancy Cook Phillips, daughters Sarah White and Karla Phillips, four grandchildren, and two sisters. |
| Funeral Arrangements | Services held at Sand Spring Baptist Church, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, on January 20, 2026; visitation on January 19 and 20; burial at Grove Hill Cemetery, Shelbyville, Kentucky. |
| Community Impact | Known for his warm personality and exceptional photography skills, leaving a lasting legacy in the Lexington community. |
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The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
