Phillip Lee Carson

May 13, 1939 – November 22, 2024

Phil Carson, beloved husband, father, veteran, and educator, passed away peacefully at his home in Locust Grove, VA on November 22, 2024, at the age of 85.

Born on May 13, 1939, and raised in the wide skies of Texas, Phil lived a life defined by service, strength, and deep dedication to both country and family. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 27 years as a fighter pilot, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, courage, commitment, and a true love for his country.

After retiring from the Air Force, Phil continued his life of service as a teacher for the Department of Defense, where he shared his knowledge and mentorship with students across the globe, including Japan and Germany, where he made lasting impacts in classrooms and communities alike.

Phil was a devoted husband to his wife, Catherine, and a loving father to his six children: Conn Carson, Blake Carson, Chad Carson, Cassandra Hiltwine, Camille Carson, and Candace Carson. His steady presence, sharp wit, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those around him and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Phil will be remembered for his integrity, sense of duty, and generous spirit — and for the way he brought warmth and wisdom to every conversation. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched across continents, classrooms, and cockpit missions. He is deeply missed and will be forever honored.

A celebration of life honoring Phil will be held for friends and family at Plantation United Methodist Church on May 17, 2025 at 11:00. Repast to follow at the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Honor Flight South Florida, The Tunnels to Towers Foundation, or Plantation United Methodist Church.

For those who would like to participate in the celebration but are unable to attend in person, the following link is provided---https://youtube.com/live/tHZTNGhUHoE?feature=share

Plantation United Methodist Church

1001 NW 70th Avenue, Plantation, FL.

High Flight

BY JOHN GILLESPIE MAGEE JR.

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth

of sun-split clouds,—and done a hundred things

You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there,

I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air ....

Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue

I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace

Where never lark, or even eagle flew—

And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod

The high untrespassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

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