Former Muscogee County Schools Superintendent Dr. John A. Phillips Jr. Dies at 86

Dr. John A. Phillips Jr., a retired Muscogee County superintendent known for leading the school district through a period of growth and stability, died Monday at his home surrounded by family. He was 86.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John A. Phillips, Jr.,” said Pat Hugley Green, chair of the Muscogee County School Board. “We mourn his loss and will miss his dedication and passion for public education.”

Phillips served as the sixth superintendent of education in Muscogee County, officially appointed on Jan. 6, 2003, after coming from the Bartow County School System in Cartersville, Ga., where he had also served as superintendent. He led the district during a critical period and also held the role of interim superintendent during times of leadership transition.

During his tenure, Phillips spearheaded the centralization of several operations, including district-wide athletics, communications, and the consolidation of offices into the Public Education Center. His efforts were aimed at improving efficiency and cohesion across the school system.

In 2013, the Muscogee County School Board awarded him emeritus status, recognizing his “extraordinary and meritorious contributions to the fulfillment of the district’s mission” and honoring his commitment to ensuring the community “cherishes its public schools.”

School board members remembered Phillips as a leader who left a lasting imprint on the district’s academic and professional culture.

“I only have good things to say about Dr. Phillips,” said Naomi Buckner, District 4 school board representative. “His tenure at the school district was a period of academic success where there were high expectations for administrators, teachers, and for the students themselves. He modeled professionalism; his leadership provided stability and set the district on a path of upward mobility.”

Phillips is survived by his wife, Suzanne Phillips, a retired educator from the district, their three sons—Trey, Brett, and Michael—as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.