In loving memory. Harrell Ray âHalâ Phillips, 72, passed on March 16, 2020. He died peacefully with friends and family surrounding him. Hal was born on June 30, 1947, to Melvin A. and Geraldine Phillips at St. Mary Hospital, Walla Walla. He grew up in Milton-Freewater and graduated from McLoughlin Union High School in 1965. Shortly after high school, Hal worked for Busch Readymix Sand and Gravel, where he ascended to vice president. After 20 years Hal moved careers and served as superintendent of the Umatilla County Road Department, where he retired at 63. As a community leader Hal was elected to the McLaughlin Unified School District Board of Directors and was an active BPOE Elks Lodge member. As an avid golfer he was a contributing member of both the M-F Golf Course and Menâs League.