Remembering Coach Phillip R. Ludington: A Life of Service and Love

Paris High School Tigers Football Coach Phillip R. Ludington, 81, Passed Away, Leaving Wife and Kids Behind!

Phillip Ludington's first spouse, Glenda, passed away just two days after their 14th wedding anniversary in 2012.

October 6, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 6, 2026

A cherished member of Whitestown, Indiana, Phillip R. Ludington, departed this world on October 4, 2026, at 3:38 a.m. at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital at the age of 81 years old.

Survived by his second spouse, Pam Dawson, and his two children, Kenneth J. Ludington and Jennifer A. Ludington.

Phillip was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Phillip and Dorothy Louise Ludington, and first spouse, Glenda Sue Tague.

He wed his initial wife, Glenda Sue Tague, on February 14, 1998, and she passed away merely two days after celebrating their 14th wedding anniversary on February 16, 2012, at the age of 54.

Two years hence, he embraced his life with his second spouse, Pam, and their union was solemnized on June 18, 2014.

Posthumously, she conveyed her heartfelt sentiments:

I was blessed to have you in my life for the last 13 years, I’m so sad that you’ve passed, but I know you’re no longer suffering. RIP Phillip Ray

Additionally, he leaves behind his five stepchildren: Jessica Warner, Jacob Bush, Joseph Bush, Amanda Dye, and Aaron Storey.

Phillip was an esteemed 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.

Moreover, he was deeply fond of his pets, Buddy, Jax, and Lucy, who are now part of his enduring legacy.

Born on March 8, 1944, within Edgar County, Illinois, Phillip flourished as an exceptional athlete during his tenure at Paris High School. Throughout his high school journey, he secured letters across 15 varsity sports.

Upon completing his studies at Southern Illinois University, he returned to Paris to teach history and serve as an assistant coach for football, basketball, and baseball.

In 1974, he assumed the role of head football coach for the Paris High School Tigers, guiding the squad to a commendable 25-20 record over five seasons.

Subsequently, Phillip took on the mantle of Athletic Director and coached the girls’ basketball team.

Post-retirement, Phillip contributed as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Pike Central Middle School in Petersburg, Indiana.

He also dedicated himself to driving school buses for Paris sports teams, nurturing future athletes.

His impactful service earned him a spot in the Paris Athletic Hall of Fame in 2026.

Outside his professional life, Phillip cherished golfing and caring for animals, always ensuring those around him were well cared for. He was a valued member of the Edgar County Board.

The family encourages donations to the Paris Cooperative High School Athletic Department in Phillip’s honor.

Funeral arrangements are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2026, at the Ernie Eveland Gymnasium in Paris, Illinois.

Viewings will occur from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 9, 2026, at Templeton Funeral Home in Paris.

During this challenging period, we seek strength for Phillip’s wife, children, and extended family.

Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Phillip R. Ludington!

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