Philip “Phil” Eugene Stafford, 78, passed away on March 19, 2026. He was born on September 1, 1947 in Terre Haute to Kenneth Wesley Stafford and Betty (Wyrick) Stafford. In November of 1974, he married Lynda (Shaffer) Stafford.

Philip was an ordained minister often working as part of the shut-in ministry. He also was part of the Ironworkers Union Local 439 and Local 22 for 33 years where he got to work in Puerto Rico and Arizona on the nuclear power plant. When he was younger, he enjoyed spending time on the river and camping with his brother, Jerry, and cousin, Bob. Philip loved to travel with his wife and family, and he also liked to hunt, fish, and go to the shooting range. Most importantly, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years Lynda, children Deanna Downey, Kenneth Downey (Shelly), David Downey, Lesley Robinson (Steve), Jason Stafford (Mandy), and Jeremy Stafford; siblings Jerry Stafford (Janet) and Carolyn Sue Crocker (David), grandchildren Robert, Jonathon, Stephanie, Brandon, Katelyn, Alye, Brittney, Patricia, Justin, Jacob, Jeffrey, Kalli, Ava, and Max; many great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, grandson Kyle, and daughter-in-law Melinda.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm at Cross Tabernacle Church (located at 2929 North 7th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47804). A funeral service will begin after the visitation at 1 pm with Pastor Keith Taylor officiating. Burial to follow at Highland Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cross Tabernacle Church where Phil was a member. Online condolences can be made at www.samaritanfunerals.com.