A 55-year-old Ocala man who was a member of The Villages sales force was the third person to die as a result of a tragic accident Saturday on Interstate 75.
George R. Phillips worked at Properties of The Villages.
A fund is being set up here to support members of his family, which include his wife, Andrea. They would have celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary later this month.
Friends said Phillips was a dedicated family man.
He had reportedly driven to the site of another accident on I-75 south of Ocala. One of his children had reportedly been involved as a passenger in that accident.
While Florida Highway Patrol trooper Chelsea Richard was talking to a tow truck operator, John Duggan, and Phillips, they were struck by a pickup truck. Richard and Duggan were pronounced dead the scene. Phillips was taken to Ocala Regional Medical Center where he
was pronounced dead late Saturday night.
The truck that struck Richard, Duggan and Phillips was driven by Troy T. Owens, 22, of Ocala, according to an updated report issued by FHP Monday afternoon.
The investigation into the crash continues.
Funeral set for Trooper Richard
A funeral for Trooper Chelsea Richard has been set for 2 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church of Ocala. A visitation has been scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday. Hiers-Baxley Funeral Home in Ocala is in charge of arrangements.
