For more than 50 years, Dave Phillips has been a trusted pastor, mentor, chaplain, coach, and friend to countless people throughout Wabash County.

Dave served as Senior Pastor of Wabash Friends Church from 1975 to 2010 and continued serving part-time through 2023. During his ministry, he helped launch community-impacting programs, including the Access Youth Center, Life Center, 85 HOPE, and Friends Counseling Center.

In this episode, Dave reflects on his decades of ministry, the changes he's witnessed in Wabash County, and the importance of faith, servant leadership, and investing in others. He also shares about caring for his wife, Debbie, during her three-year hospice journey before her passing in November 2025.

A 2004 Distinguished Citizen and 2024 Founders Festival Parade Grand Marshal, Dave's influence extends far beyond the church. He continues to preach, teach, mentor, and serve families during some of life's most meaningful moments.

Join us for a conversation with a man whose legacy can be found in the countless lives he has touched throughout Wabash County.

If today’s episode inspired you, make sure to subscribe, rate, and download future episodes of the ThriveIN Wabash County Podcast. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments and upcoming stories.

A heartfelt thank-you to our community partners—The City of Wabash, Bowen Health, Sandra Kunkel Trust, Mark & Amy Ford, PaperWorks Industries, Lisa Gilman Investment Fund, the Community Foundation of Wabash County, and Visit Wabash County—for helping bring this podcast to life. This podcast is produced in partnership with Destination Wabash County.

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