Dick Phillips
For nearly half a century, Dick Phillips has been a beloved presence in Walla Walla and a steady, joyful force at the Southeast Washington Fairgrounds. Anyone who has wandered through the gates during fair time has unknowingly walked past his handiwork — the lush lawn, the shade of the trees, the flowers framing the floriculture building, and especially the roses that bloom with such quiet pride. Those roses are the result of Dick’s patient hands and the many hours he and his stepdaughter, Kaye, have spent tending them throughout the year.
Dick and his wife of 45 years, Shirl, poured their hearts into the floriculture building. Together they cleaned, supervised, decorated, and helped create the beautiful displays that generations of fairgoers have enjoyed. Their family’s connection to the fair runs deep. Dick’s stepdaughter Kelli served on the fair court, as did one of his granddaughters.
A devoted Rosarian, Dick led the Rose Society for 15 years and continues to serve as vice president. His commitment is visible in every bloom at Pioneer Park and across the fairgrounds, where his decades of care have shaped the landscape as surely as the seasons themselves.
Family has always been at the center of Dick’s life. He raised four children during his first marriage, and when he married Shirl, he joyfully embraced her seven children as his own. Even after Shirl’s passing, he has remained a steady, loving presence in the lives of his stepchildren. Together, he and Shirl were tireless volunteers — supporting 4‑H, Wagonettes and Jr. Wagonettes, and encouraging their children and grandchildren to enter projects in the fair each year.
Dick’s service to the community extends far beyond the fairgrounds. For 25 years, he volunteered at the Fort Walla Walla Museum, where he brought history to life through living history performances, helped restore the locomotive, and donned the red suit as Santa Claus, bringing delight to countless children. At his church, he spent more than two decades as a Cubbie leader for Awana, guiding young children with patience and kindness.
A gifted storyteller, Dick has authored seven volumes of Nation Builders: A Tale of Five Families, a sweeping historical novel series tracing the stories of early ancestors. His books can be found at the Fort Walla Walla Museum Store and on Amazon, continuing his lifelong mission to preserve and share the past.
One of the accomplishments closest to his heart was the creation of a monument honoring his grandfather, Charles Phillips, the builder of Jefferson Park — originally Dreamland Park. With the support of the Living History Company and the Parks Department, Dick helped ensure that his grandfather’s legacy would be remembered.
The Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days Board of Directors are pleased to have Dick Phillips as our 2026 Parade Marshal.