Phillip Craig CantrellYates Center, KS

Phillip Craig Cantrell ,61, of Yates Center Kansas passed away Saturday May 9, 2026, at Olathe Medical Center in Olathe, Kansas.

Phillip was born December 7, 1964, to Craig Cantrell and Janice (Bingham) Cantrell in Iola, Kansas.

Phillip was raised in Yates Center where he remained the entirety of his life. Born into a family hay business, Phillip was out in the hay fields working starting at the age of 14 and stayed until the business retired. With the early mornings and late nights, the smell of fresh cut hay or the rhythm of the baler under a Kansas sky it wasn’t just work, the hay meadows were where Phillip felt most at peace.

Phillip found his soulmate, Marilee (Testorff) Cantrell in February 1982. They later married May 17, 1986. In 1992 Phillip and Marilee lost their first child, a daughter, named Alyssa. In 1994 they welcomed their daughter Alexis and a son, Micah, in 1998.

Phillip’s true love in life was being a father. He made sure to make every holiday special and gave his all to give his children the most special childhood he possibly could; he succeeded. In 2023 Phillip became a grandfather. His grandson, Briar, became the apple of his eye. He and Briar’s love for one another knew no bounds. Phillip had no greater pride than the family he created.

Phillip was known for his unique sense of humor. He loved playing tricks and pranks on friends and family. He had a booming and contagious laugh that those who have heard it will never forget. Phillip was also known for his gentle and selfless nature. He never knew a stranger. He welcomed all, especially all his children’s friends, into his home with open arms. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He loved and protected those he loved fiercely.

Phillip is proceeded in death by his infant daughter Alyssa and his parents Janice and Craig Cantrell.

Phillip is survived by his wife Marilee; his children, daughter Alexis Cantrell and partner Joseph, son Micah Cantrell; grandson, Briar Reade; brother Shawn Cantrell; Aunt Candy (Mike) Bixler; and many nieces and nephews.

The family suggests memorial contributions to an educational fund for his grandson Briar Reade. These can be left with the funeral home.

Phillip’s funeral will be held Thursday May 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Yates Center, Kansas. Burial will be at a later date.

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