William James Phinisee

Obituary For William James Phinisee

Warren, OH- With hearts accepting God’s will, it is announced the passing of William James Phinisee, a beloved son, father, brother, and friend, who departed from this world surrounded by his family at the Cleveland Clinic on October 27, 2025, after an extended illness. William was born August 30, 1976, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the union of Willie and Barbabra Phinisee,

William, known affectionately as Will, was a shining light in the lives of everyone who knew him. Growing up in the heart of Youngstown, he played football for North Junior High School’s Bulldogs. His family relocated to the city of Warren where Will attended Warren’s Western Reserve High School. He furthered his post-secondary education at the Warren campus of Kent State University.

As a Warren resident, Will’s vibrant spirit and generous nature flourished. He grew to become a prominent figure in the nonprofit sector as the Vice President of Operations at Citizens Uniting Citizens. Actively involved with the Wean Foundation, Will’s passion for helping others inspired countless lives, showcasing his dedication to uplifting his community and fostering a sense of unity. A man of great heart, he sought knowledge and understanding, forging connections to advance the quality of life for others in the city of Warren.

Ambitious, Will had several business ventures and enterprises which varied from a car-detailing operation, a haberdashery for men, a frequent vendor at area flea markets and a jeweler. His talents and skillfulness in audio technology were appreciated by the retail customers at the former Sun TV.

Will is lovingly remembered by his mother, Barbara Phinisee; cherished son, Adam De'antae Phinisee; dear sister, Deneen Simko; and a host family and friends. Each of these relationships was a testament to the love and legacy William nurtured throughout his life—a tapestry woven with compassion, laughter, and unwavering support.

As William crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he was reunited with his father Willie Phinisee and sister Raylen Lane. In our sorrow, let us find strength in community and remember William not just for his years, but for the impact he had on countless lives. May his journey remind us of the beauty in kindness and the power of unity that he so fervently championed.

In honoring Will’s memory, there will be an 11:00 am public viewing on Monday, November 10, 2025, to be held at New Freedom Missionary Baptist Church,1590 Tod Ave, Warren. A Celebration of Life service will begin at Noon with Pastor Robert L. Stringer officiating. After a committal ceremony, Will be laid to rest at the serene estates of Belmont Park Cemetery alongside his beloved father.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of William James Phinisee elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

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