AIKEN, SC- Ronald Joseph Phillips, age 77, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Thursday, September 17, 2015. Mr. Phillips was born in Washington, D.C. on December 23, 1937 to the late Pete and Ollie Sue Phillips. He proudly served his country in the Air National Guard, entering at age 17, with one year on active duty in the United States Air Force. Mr. Phillips retired after 37 years of service with the Central intelligence Agency. He was a resident of New Market, Virginia prior to making Aiken, South Carolina his home sixteen years ago. He was an avid golfer, sports fans, and enjoyed traveling, spending a significant amount of time overseas with his job. He was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and previously served as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Pat Phillips; daughter, Lisa Marie Yingling (Dave), Towson, MD; four sons, Ronald Joseph Phillips, Jr. (Kathleen), Potomac Falls, VA, John David Phillips (Kelly), Hamilton, VA; Michael Francis Phillips, West Lafayette, IN, Stephen Patrick Phillips (Lisa), Chantilly, VA; and twelve grandchildren. A Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at the old Saint Mary's Help of Christians Catholic Church, 125 Park Ave. S.E., with the Reverend Art Dalupang as celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Savannah River Cancer Foundation, 235 Barnwell Ave., N.W., Aiken, SC 29801. The Historic George Funeral Home, 211 Park Ave., S.W., Aiken, SC 29801 (803.649.6234) has charge of arrangements.