D. Phillip "Phil" Stembridge

D. Phillip Stembridge, 77, of Macon, Georgia, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Montezuma, Georgia, Phil was the son of John and Margie Stembridge. He spent his life building a family, a career, friendships, and memories that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was the beloved husband of Lorri Freeman Stembridge, with whom he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.

Phil was a proud father to Stephanie Bleshoy (Jay) and Richard Stembridge (Sarah Beth), and a loving grandfather to Cameron, Zachary, Mincey, Chris, and John, who brought him tremendous joy. Family was at the heart of who Phil was. He loved being a dad and grandfather and took great joy in simply being part of their lives.

Phil was a quiet man, but those who knew him well knew there was much more beneath that quiet exterior. He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor and a wit that could catch you completely off guard. He was fun-loving, empathetic, fiercely loyal, and truly one of a kind. Phil had a way of bringing a laugh to a group—even when he wasn't necessarily trying to be funny. That was just Phil.

He lived life fully and on his own terms, never needing to be the center of attention to make an impression. He was an original—a man who could say something simple, perfectly timed, and leave everyone laughing. His quiet nature, quick wit, and unmistakable personality made him someone people remembered.

Phil graduated from the University of Georgia. He later retired from Country Financial, but retirement gave him more time for the things he loved most. He enjoyed golf, spending time with his family, following the Georgia Bulldogs, and, of course, loving on his beloved dogs, Granger and Scooter. His precious Lolo, affectionately known as Moe, held a particularly special place in his heart.

Phil was also a self-described “health researcher,” always curious and interested in learning more and taking care of himself and those he loved. That curiosity was simply another reflection of the person he was—thoughtful, interested, and always willing to look a little deeper.

Phil was a member of Northway Church.

He is survived by his wife, Lorri; his daughter, Stephanie Bleshoy (Jay); his son, Richard Stembridge (Sarah Beth); his sister, Ann Stembridge (Bob Tenney); his brother, Edgar Stembridge (Sandy); and his grandchildren, Cameron, Zachary, Mincey, Chris, and John. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Margie Stembridge and his brother, John Allen Stembridge.

Phil leaves behind a family who loved him deeply, friends who will miss his humor and loyalty, and countless memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter. He was quiet, funny, loving, loyal, original, and completely himself.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A service celebrating Phil's life will be held at 2:00 PM, on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Hart’s Mortuary at the Cupola, 6324 Peake Road, Macon, Georgia.  A visitation will be held before the service, from 1:00 PM to 2:00PM.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at Grey Goose Players Club, 4524 Forsyth Road, Macon, Georgia, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Rock on Rescue, 853 Eatonton Highway, Gray, Georgia 31032, or UGA College Veterinary Medicine - Small Animal Client Support Fund, vet.uga.edu, or donor's charity of choice.

Casual attire is requested. In honor of Phil’s love for the Georgia Bulldogs, feel free to wear your favorite red and black as we celebrate the life of our beloved Phil.