Michael J Phillips

Michael J. Phillips was born in Manhattan, New York, the eldest of five children born to Michael L. Phillips and Mary Ellen (Ahearn), both of proud Irish heritage. Michael was a brilliant and gifted individual who became a musician, vocalist, story teller and poet and continued to grow within these creative traditions throughout his long life, to the delight and enjoyment of those who knew and loved him.

Michael moved from NYC to Tucson, Arizona, in 1977 and established the Tucson Tai Chi Association where he taught as Chief Instructor for over 40 years providing expert training in T’ai Chi Ch’uan (taijiquan), martial arts, and Taoist meditation techniques to countless students. He went on to teach therapeutic Chi Gong (qigong) at Sierra Tucson Treatment Center in Catalina, Arizona, effectively assisting those in need of supportive healing modalities during their rehabilitation and recovery from addiction.

May Michael be remembered not only for the profound influence he had on his students through the knowledge and wisdom he so generously shared via his engaging style of teaching, but let us also remember his kindness, compassion, humility, wonderful sense of humor and genuine good heartedness.

Michael passed away following a series of health challenges. He is predeceased by his parents, Mike and Mary Ellen, his brothers, John and Joseph and sister Patricia (Camilo). He is survived by his loving wife and sweetheart of 44 years, Susan (O’Bryen), his youngest brother Brian and wife Theresa (Gallo), and brother John’s wife Sue (Randall), as well as several nieces and nephews and a large extended family of in-laws.

Michael was deeply loved and his extraordinary presence will be forever missed. May he rest in the peace of God’s eternal love and light. Amen.

It is requested that donations in Michael’s memory be sent to his favorite charity, the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Website: communityfoodbank.org