Longtime trainer/driver Robert Dennis Phillips of Lewes, P.E.I. passed away on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Charlottetown. He was 71.
He was born on Aug. 2, 1953 in Windsor, N.S. to the late Owen and Minnie (Lunn) Phillips.
Robert is survived by his spouse, Myrtle (Levy) Phillips; brother, Peter (Linda) of Windsor, N.S.; sisters, June Mumford of Garlands Crossing, N.S., Karen (Bob Haley) of Halifax, N.S., Vicki (Stuart) of Sweets Corner, N.S., and Suzanne (Paul) of Sweets Corner, N.S.; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Robert was predeceased by his brother, Terry, and sister, Nanci LeBlanc.
At Pinette Raceway, Robert was a wonderful mentor to the younger participants just starting out in the harness racing industry (especially matinee racing). He would always have a couple of horses for them to drive so they could learn and build their skills. He was lucky to have spent his whole life doing what he loved: working with Standardbred horses, which he drove across Canada and in the United States. He was an owner, trainer and driver. He also worked for the Hants Co-Op, Fundy Gypsum and Agri Co-Op. Robert’s love for the horses had no bounds.
He also played hockey. He spoke fondly of the friends he made at the rinks in Windsor and Brooklyn, always rooting for the Montreal Canadians.
The family would like to thank John Knox, Wade Sorrie, John Perry and his sons, Shelley and Trevor, and anyone else who has provided assistance during this most difficult time. The family would also like to thank the staff of Unit 8, Dr. Kielly, Dr. Peterson and Dr. Girsberger, and social workers Julie and Cadance for their care and kindness.
A memorial service is scheduled for April 27, 2025 at the Sweets Corner Hall in Nova Scotia from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pinette Raceway in May.
Donations in Robert’s memory can be made to the Kidney Foundation, Heart and Stroke or the Diabetes Association.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Robert Phillips.