David Phillips, the only child of Gerald and Geraldine Phillips, was born on May 10, 1945 and raised in Woodstock, New Brunswick. He grew up attending the Woodstock Baptist Church being involved in the choir and youth activities. He came to the United Baptist Bible Training School in 1960 and attended for 4 years and was involved in student council, yearbook, intramural sports and music ministry during his time there. This was a time of growth in his self confidence and he developed further in his strong work ethic and leadership skills as he grew in the context of this family of faith. While at UBBTS he met Jean Crawford who would become his wife.
Moving on from UBBTS in 1964, David attended Gordon College in Boston, MA and again was involved in choir and his faith experience was expanded. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1970. Later, he received his Bachelor of Education degree from St. Thomas University, Fredericton, NB.
Upon graduation from Gordon College, David and Jean, who were married in 1967 settled back in the Moncton area where David took up his first teaching position at Salisbury High School. In 1975 he came to L.B. McNaughton High School, first as a Guidance Counsellor, later serving as a Vice Principal before assuming the role of Principal. During this time David’s leadership contributed to the growth of technology and trades education programs.
In 1993, after joining the District 2 Board Office as a Supervisor, David became Vice Principal at Riverview High School and later Principal at Caledonia High School. Toward the end of his career he moved back to Salisbury High School, now known as JMA High School to serve as Principal, retiring in 2002. David was known as a caring administrator with a strong work ethic.
David became involved in the China Home Stay Program. In his retirement, he and Jean moved to China for a year to teach. David continued that relationship on his own for shorter intervals. That experience made a deep impression upon him and he developed a caring heart for Chinese students who came to Canada to study.
David took up many roles at First Baptist Church Moncton where the couple were church members, including Moderator, Sanctuary Choir member, and Trustee Board Chair. He was a visionary leader who exercised a kind spirit as he worked with others to advance Christ’s kingdom. He and Jean were active participants in the United Baptist Bible Training School (UBBTS) ’60-’64 alumni gatherings, and he served nearly eleven years on the Board of Governors at Crandall University maintaining a keen interest in the University until his death in 2016.
David was married to Jean for over 48 years, and they adopted two sons, Tom and Matthew, who married Misty (Crandall University ‘05).
A verse that was important to David was Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things (which He has called me to do) through Him who strengthens and empowers me (to fulfil His purpose – I am self sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.)” (Amplified Version)
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