Rev. Philip Spry, Sr.

Reverend Philip Spry was promoted to Heaven, on October 23, 2023, at the age of 77, in Raleigh, NC. Phil was born on August 18, 1946, in Brooklyn, NY. He volunteered for the US Navy immediately after high school, where he became a dental technician. In 1970 Phil and his wife Toni became followers of Christ, a decision that would change their lives forever. Not long afterward Phil began preparing for the ministry, studying general education at DeAnza College and spiritual instruction at Jessup University and Moody Bible Institute. His training paved the way for a lifetime of service to God.

Phil dedicated his life to leading people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, sharing his faith with anyone who would listen. He was a 24/7 pastor. He preached and taught Bible studies and Sunday school classes, but he also went above and beyond to model “Christianity with feet.” Whether it was installing drywall, buying a pair of glasses, or fixing a car, Phil would go out of his way to assist anyone in need.

Together with his wife, Toni, Phil was used by God in a mighty way to both envision and establish ministries that would spread the Gospel. He started nine churches throughout the US. He also created Tellstart, an automated phone system which facilitated the planting of one thousand additional churches. He founded a Christian radio station, WAGP, as well as a crisis pregnancy center in Beaufort, South Carolina. He also started Southside Christian School, in Clayton, NC. Additionally, Phil was the author of Guerrilla Evangelism, a practical manual for church planters.

Phil had a lifelong interest with science which, once he became a Christian, translated into an expertise in scientific creationism. He compiled and taught creation vs. evolution seminars in churches and schools across the US and debated numerous college professors on the subject.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Toni, daughter Susan Minton and her husband Tim, son Philip Spry Jr.; grandchildren Elizabeth Minton, Julia Minton, Catherine Minton, Philip Spry, III, Nikki Spry, Jonathan Spry, and Christopher Spry; siblings Barbara Wheeler, Harold L. Spry, III, and Lynn Shoemaker. He was preceded in death by his mother Magdalene Spry and his father Harold L. Spry, Jr.

Those who knew and loved him rejoice in the secure knowledge Phil is now experiencing the fullness of joy that is the presence of the Lord, and that we will see him again in Heaven!

“You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”

(Psalm 16:11)

A celebration of Phil’s life will be held on Saturday, November 4th at Hilltop Church Student Center located at 10212 Fayetteville Road, Fuquay-Varina, NC. The family will receive visitors at 1:00 pm with the service to follow at 2:00 pm. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Southside Christian School Building Fund at https://southsidechristianschool-a.aware3.net/give/.