David English Phillips, 78, of Salisbury passed away on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 19, 1945 in Easton, Maryland, a son of the late Bernice English Phillips and William Steele Phillips. Dave grew up in Hurlock and graduated from North Dorchester High School with the class of 1963. He was a great athlete and earned the title of the fastest runner in Dorchester County. He was also a gifted baseball player and was signed into minor league baseball. His love of sports continued throughout his life as he took an interest in all sports, he especially enjoyed following college football. He and his wife traveled to Las Vegas every October for 20 years, where he enjoyed gambling and betting on college football. Dave worked for A&P Supermarket for many years in the meat department, rarely ever missing a day of work. Throughout the years, he enjoyed swimming in his pool, being out in the sun, and listening to old country music. Dave enjoyed delivering newspapers to those he knew in his neighborhood, and with each newspaper would be a special treat he knew that person would enjoy. He will be missed by many, especially his loving family. He is survived by his daughter, Rene Phillips Adkins (Patrick); granddaughters, Kayla Kincaid (Scott) and Tori P. Adkins; step-son, Ralph D. Whitten; step-daughter, Ruthanna W. Lucas (John); step-grandchildren, Joseph D. D'Adamo, Neil T. D'Adamo, Kyle R. Whitten, and David P. Whitten; a brother, Robert William Phillips (Gerry), a special friend, Judy Taylor; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife who he married on May 31, 1971, Patricia J. (Willey) Phillips; brother, John E. Phillips; granddaughter and best friend, Brianna Ashleigh Wright; and a step-son, Robert D. Whitten. Services will be held privately. In memory of Mr. Phillips, contributions may be sent to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.