A beloved resident of Whitestown, Indiana, Phillip R. Ludington, passed away on October 4, 2025, at 3:38 a.m. at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital at the age of 81 years old.
Phillip R. Ludington is survived by his second wife, Pam Dawson, and his two children, Kenneth J. Ludington and Jennifer A. Ludington.
Phillip was preceded in demise by his parents, Carl Phillip and Dorothy Louise Ludington, and first wife, Glenda Sue Tague.
He married his first wife, Glenda Sue Tague, on February 14, 1998, and she passed away just two days after they celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary on February 16, 2012, at the age of 54.
Two years later, he found his home with his second wife, Pam, and they married on June 18, 2014.
Following his demise, Pam expressed her gratitude and grief, writing:
I was blessed to have you in my life for the last 13 years, I’m so sad that your gone, but I know you’re no longer suffering. RIP Phillip Ray
Pam Dawson
Likewise, he also leaves behind his five stepchildren: Jessica Warner, Jacob Bush, Joseph Bush, Amanda Dye, and Aaron Storey.
Phillip was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Tara and Isaac Ludington, Leo and Jack Warner, Cayden and Brenley Bush, Braxton and Haylee Buckler, Brielle and Conrad Dye, and Emmett and Eli Storey.
Not to forget, he was also preceded in death by his cherished dogs, Buddy, Jax, and Lucy.
Born on March 8, 1944, in Edgar County, Illinois, Phillip was a talented athlete during his time at Paris High School. During his time at the high school, he earned letters in 15 varsity sports.
After graduating from Southern Illinois University, he returned to Paris to teach history and serve as an assistant coach for football, basketball, and baseball.
In 1974, he became the head football coach for the Paris High School Tigers, leading the team to a 25-20 record over the course of five years.
Later, Phillip served as the Athletic Director and coached girls’ basketball.
Whereas, after retiring, Phillip worked as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Pike Central Middle School in Petersburg, Indiana.
He also drove school buses for Paris sports teams, supporting new generations of athletes.
Thanks to his contributions, Phillip was honored with induction into the Paris Athletic Hall of Fame in 2025.
Beyond his career, Phillip loved golfing and animals. He always made sure those around him had what they needed. He was also a former member of the Edgar County Board.
The family suggests that those who wish to honor Phillip’s memory make donations to the Paris Cooperative High School Athletic Department in his name.
Services for Phillip will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025, in the Ernie Eveland Gymnasium in Paris, Illinois.
Visitation will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Templeton Funeral Home in Paris.
During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Phillip’s wife, children, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Phillip R. Ludington!
