3 weeks ago · navdeep · Comments Off on Resident Spotlight: Glendon “Bud” Phillips
Resident Spotlight: Glendon “Bud” Phillips
Glendon L. Phillips, better known as “Bud,” was born in the community of Cottage Hill, just east of Celina. A third-generation member of the Cottage Hill United Methodist Church, he attended Celina ISD schools and was a member of the 1956 graduation class of Celina High School.
After graduation, Bud joined the United States Navy and served from 1956-1962. Soon after returning home, he began a lifetime journey of serving his beloved Celina, Texas.
In the mid-1960s, Bud served on the Collin County Tax Equalization Board (a forerunner of our present-day Tax Assessor’s office). He also volunteered as a Celina Police Department Reserve Officer. During this decade, Bud would serve his first term as a Celina City Councilmember, going on to serve for five terms.
Bud was also a charter member of the Celina Quarterback Club. He faithfully served with that original group to support Celina Bobcats athletic programs and the students who compete in them and has been faithful to do the same for generations of Bobcats. At 85 years old, he loves the Celina Bobcats. Yes, Bud bleeds Bobcat Orange.
In 1964, Bud joined the Masonic Lodge of Celina No. 919, known as the “Blue Lodge,” where he is still an active member. While serving the Masonic Lodge, he held several offices within the Lodge (Worshipful Master three times, Junior Steward, Secretary, Senior Deacon, and Treasure). He is a 3rd degree Master Mason.
He received two Masonic awards: the Golden Trowel in 2001 and the 50-year Service Award in 2014. In addition, the Grand Lodge selected him to serve as District 9-A Deputy Grand Master in 2004. He holds a Scottish Rite 32nd degree.
In 1970, Bud Phillips was elected to his first term as Mayor of Celina, beginning his first of seven terms as Celina’s Mayor, a tenure of service that stretched across four decades.
During his first term, Mayor Bud Phillips determined the future boundaries of Celina. Then, with the approval of the Texas Legislature, he drew the boundaries that today encompass the almost 80 square mile border of Celina.
In the 1970s, Bud also served as Celina’s water and wastewater superintendent, as he held the license for Celina.
One of his favorite acts of service came in 2010 when he was seated on a Federal Grand Jury, which was just another way for Bud to give his time.
Other boards he served on in his beloved Celina include Planning and Zoning, Board of Adjustments, and Celina Main Street. He volunteered at the Celina Senior Center and many other places he was asked to help. On October 11, 2021, Bud received the Celina Lifetime Service Award for his faithfulness to the small town he grew up in. He served his city with all of his heart.
Doing all the above while working at Red Ball Freight and Yellow Freight Trucking companies for a total of 45 years.
Bud joined the Tribute Senior Living Family in November 2022. As the above shows, Bud’s loves socializing. When people ask, “How is Bud doing?” his daughter, Jill, responds, “Dad is living his best life enjoying the people, activities, and the delicious food at Tribute.”
