With deep sorrow in our hearts, the Adams County Community Foundation must report that our amazing founder and Director Emeritus, Jack W. Phillips, passed away on August 18, 2018.

Jack Phillips came to Gettysburg to practice law after living in Williamsport, PA, where he had been inspired by the good works of their Community Foundation. As he came to feel fully at home in Gettysburg, in 1985 he suggested to the Rotary Club of Gettysburg that the best way to fulfill its commitment of “Service Above Self” would be to establish a community foundation following the Williamsport, PA model.

In November of 1985, the Adams County Foundation (predecessor of our current community foundation), was established. And Jack stayed fully involved as the years passed. For 22 years, Jack provided the tender loving care that nurtured the Community Foundation. He served as Executive Director and worked with the Distribution Committee and he managed the day to day operations all without compensation for his time.

By 2008 the community foundation had just over $400,000 in assets, but Jack had bigger ideas.

He realized that the foundation needed to make changes to grow its mission, and that fall, the foundation converted to a non-profit corporation – the current Adams County Community Foundation – and began hiring full-time staff.

At the time of the conversion, in 2008, Jack wrote, “I am totally convinced that my dream of having a top-notch, first class Community Foundation to serve the whole of Adams County will now come true. The future of the Foundation has no limits: FOR GOOD – FOR ADAMS COUNTY – FOR EVER.”

Community Foundation President & CEO Ralph Serpe emphasizes that it was Jack’s vision and guidance that solidified the community foundation. “He had the quiet leadership that people look up to,” said Serpe. “He willingly brought in new people, and he encouraged them to take ownership of the Community Foundation and encourage people to be generous. It’s a rare trait, and one we loved him for.”

Current Community Foundation Board Chair Loni Buck underscores the giving nature of Jack and his family, “My family and I met Jack and Bobbie Phillips when we first moved to Gettysburg. They were both so welcoming and kind. Jack was a sincere, inspiring and gracious individual. Each time we saw Jack, he was as enthusiastic and cheerful as he was the first time we met. I feel very fortunate to have known Jack Phillips. He embodied the best of our community. Thanks to his efforts, foresight and gentle strength, I know that Adams County will forever benefit from his time here.”

Jack’s son, John S. Phillips, continues his family’s legacy of service to the Community Foundation and will step up from his role as vice-chair to board chair in 2019.

Serpe summarized the feelings of all when he said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our compass and founder. But with the legacy of his leadership, we will survive and thrive together.”

Contributions in memory of Jack will be gratefully received by clicking here or sending a donation to the Adams County Community Foundation, 25 S. Fourth Street, Gettysburg, PA. 17325