Benjamin Jefferson Phillips II

On December 3, 2024, I had an appointment that I had to keep. I went to be with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Those that I loved dearly will miss me the most and I do hope that I made you proud of me.

My life on earth began on January 15, 1952 in Kansas City, Missouri. I was born to Benjamin Jefferson Phillips, Sr. and Mary Grant Phillips. My brother, Bruce, was born a couple of years later. However, they have all kept their appointment with Jesus. I am the last to join them.

I grew up in Los Angeles, California and graduated from Crenshaw High School in June 1970. Shortly after graduation, I was hired to work in the payroll department for Tishman Construction on August 5, 1970, on their Century City project.

I gained valuable experience and during the next 54 years (with the same company), I leveled up on job assignments by living and working in different cities. For example: The Renaissance (Detroit), the Golden Nugget (Atlantic City) and the Gateway. As time progressed, I moved many times with the company to work on various projects in Los Angeles, New York, The Borgota (New Jersey) and the Aladdin (Las Vegas) before moving to Delaware, and then to Washington, DC. In 2006 we moved back to Las Vegas to work on Echelon but it was halted due to the 2008 recession. However, I remained in Las Vegas working from home on various projects in the Western Region and was promoted to my current position as Vice President – Regional Controller.

Other aspects of my journey include my extended educational experience. I received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Thomas A. Edison State College and a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Business Ethics, from Duquesene University. My inner voice always reminded me I had to “educate to elevate”.

Also, important in my journey of significance are those who selflessness encouraged my success – my supportive and loving family. My wife, Frances; my sons, Benjamin III (Tamika), and Brandon; daughter, Jessica and grandchildren, Leah, Tyler and William. Each holds a very special place in my heart. There are others that have a special place in my heart: my god-daughters Korena Collins and Lerin Ramsey Gables; my brother in loves – Charles Moore, Ronnie (Rhonda) Moore, and Ken Moore; my sister in love - Wanda Williams; and many nieces, nephews and close friends and of course my AECOM/Tishman family.

So, seven decades later I learned God orders your steps; that life is just what you make it and you can find joy in any situation because regardless of how bad it may be it can always be worse. The one who made this incredible journey happen is my Father in Heaven, the author and finisher of my faith. I can never thank HIM enough. I am with HIM now and all is well.

Isaiah 41:10-Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.