AUBURN — George P. Phillips, 70, of West Minot Road, Minot, died Thursday, March 15, with his family at his side, at the Hospice House of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice.

He was born in Belfast, Feb. 9, 1942, the son of the late Merl and Pauline (Verakis) Phillips. He was educated in Belfast and graduated from Crosby High School, Class of 1960.

George married Reina Lessard on June 7, 1986. He had been employed at Home Depot for many years. He was a member of the New Auburn Social Club, Le Pastime Club and the American Legion in Mechanic Falls.

George was a professional country singer in his younger years. He had the opportunity to sing with some big names in country music such as Tanya Tucker, Barbara Mandrell, Mel Tillis, Bobby Bare, Dick Curless and Ira Allen. His passion was playing golf. He loved traveling with his wife, Reina, and spending time with family and friends. He will be missed by all.

He leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Reina Lessard of Minot; his five children, Ricky Chaples, Rod Phillips and his wife, Cassandra, of Hartford, Lisa Sidelinger and her husband, Ted, of Lewiston, Jesse Leonas and his wife, Debbie, of Vermont, and Brett Leonas and his wife, Kelly, of Massachusetts; a sister, Christine Wheeler and her husband, Patrick, of Georgia; four brothers, Joseph Phillips and his wife, Winnie, of Florida, David Phillips and his wife, Diana, of New Hampshire, Stanley Sullivan and his wife, Sharon, of Kittery Point and James Phillips and his wife, Nancy, of Belfast; eight granddaughters, Amy, Kayla, Kristen, Nikki, Jesse, Heather, Paige and Shaelyn; many nieces and nephews; and Dennis Banks of Lewiston, who was like a brother to George.

He was predeceased by two brothers, Stephen and Arthur Phillips; and a sister, Cynthia Brown.

Family and friends are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to George’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.