Alvin Phillips

Obituary For Alvin Phillips

Alvin was born on December 19, 1964, in Harlem, New York, to Evelyn Alston and the late Lloyd “Butch” Phillips. From the very beginning, Alvin showed strength and resilience. He spent much of his early life in the hospital before finally being able to go home to his family. He was raised by his grandparents and later by his beloved Aunt Gertrude, who helped shape the quiet and gentle spirit he carried throughout his life. Despite those early challenges, Alvin never lost his joy for life. He loved good music, especially Bob Marley, and could often be found relaxing, vibing to the rhythm, and enjoying a “fat one.”

In 2013, Alvin married his life partner and friend, Marcia. Together they built a life grounded in companionship and love. Alvin was a proud father to his three children, William, Omar, and Ashli, and a devoted grandfather to his grandson, KJ, whom he affectionately called “Lion.” More than just a nickname, it was Alvin’s way of reminding KJ to be strong, brave, and proud. One of Alvin’s greatest joys was being a grandfather, and he often spoke about his dream of helping his grandson attend college.

Alvin received his education through the New York City public school system. Over the years, he worked hard and held several jobs, including positions at Hyundai, Pathmark, and the Fulton Fish Market, until health challenges eventually forced him into retirement.

Alvin enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including watching boxing matches and classic kung fu movies. He valued family deeply and made it a point to stay connected with those he loved through phone calls, visits, and time spent together. At family cookouts, Alvin was often found at the grill making his famously spicy jerk chicken. Even when it came out a little too burnt, he would laugh and say it was “the best part.”

In 2022, Alvin was diagnosed with lung cancer, which he courageously fought and survived. Later, he was diagnosed with brain cancer — a battle he fought long and hard with strength and determination until he could fight no more. On February 22, 2026, Alvin was finally able to rest peacefully.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Marcia Burnett; his children, William DeVaughn, Omar Orukpe, and Ashli DeVaughn (Kiah); his cherished grandson, KJ “Lion” Gidron; his mother, Evelyn Alston King (Thurston); his sisters, Tashana Alston, Kissten Alston, Shawnda Nesbitt, Adriene Nesbitt, Vanessa Nesbitt, and Kim Nesbitt; his brothers, Shawn Alston (Allison), Keith Nesbitt, and Howard Nesbitt; his aunts, Harriet Alston, Jean Campanioni, , Alfreda Alston, and Barbara Cole; his uncles, John Alston, James Alston, and Frank Cole; his special friend Derrick; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Alvin was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd “Butch” Phillips; his aunt, Gertrude Alston; his brothers, John Nesbitt and Timothy Nesbitt; and his sisters, Debbie Nesbitt and Shedrika Nesbitt. Though Alvin is now at rest, the love, strength, and joy he shared will continue to live on through the family he cherished.

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