David Dean Phillips, 83, of Poolesville, MD a lifelong horseman, farrier and farmer who loved to be with friends and family died with his loving wife by his side on April 5th, 2026.
Born November 11, 1942, to the late Winnifred (Winnie) & Robert Phillips in Annapolis, Maryland. He was later lovingly raised by his mother and stepfather the late William “Bill” Gordon.
David grew up in Indiana & Potomac, Maryland. David graduated from Walter Johnson High School in 1962 and immediately started working. He went on to Farrier School in 1963 where his career took off and he met some amazing people who he considered friends and not just clients.
His lifelong love of horses began in childhood and grew into his work as a farrier and a lasting passion. He was deeply involved in the equestrian life, from raising horses to fox hunting and trail riding, and raised farm animals over the years. He enjoyed sharing this horse passion with his wife.
David’s greatest joy was his family and friends. He took pride in his children and later watched his grandchildren and great grandchildren grow, always offering guidance and love. He was deeply involved in 4-H & FFA with his family for many years. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.
He was a member of the American Farrier Association, Potomac & New Market Middle Town Valley Hunt clubs. He enjoyed taking The Surrey Tack Trailer to events to visit with his horse friends and family.
He is survived by his beloved wife Alyne Morgan, children Deana Phillips Tice (Joe), David D. Phillips Jr (Gina), Michael Phillips (Kerry) and Christine (Christi) Phillips Mitchell (Chad). Grandchildren Derrick Phillips (Rachel). Rachel Phillips Swortwood (MJ), Josiah Tice IV, Cody Tice, Justin Tice, Connor Mitchel, Lily Phillips, Chase Mitchell & Gabriel Phillips. Great Grandchildren Gracey Swortwood, Harper Phillips, Brody Swortwood, Hadley Phillips, Brooks Swortwood & Graham Phillips. He is survived by siblings John Phillips, Larry Gordon, Richard (Dick) Gordon (Ninika), Debbie Wolfe, Lisa Carr (David), Steve Gordon (Amy), Eden Tanner, Lynne Phillips, Beverly Sheppard and Wendell Phillips. Countless nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to WUMCO Help, Inc. Western Upper Montgomery County Help Inc.
A celebration of David’s life will take place on Saturday, May 9th at noon at David & Lisa Carr’s home. Springdale Farm 4051 Standford Court, Frederick MD.
Celebration of Life
Saturday, May 9, 2026
12 Noon
Springdale Farm
4051 Standford Court
Frederick, MD
From: Fran Ligler
I am so sorry to hear the sad news. I have so many good memories of the two of you as friends, as fox chasing companions, over breakfast afterwards and trail riding. these memories will live forever.
From: Lorraine Sakaris
My deepest condolences to all in the family. Dave was a wonderful man who made positive differences in the lives of many, including myself.
From: LeeAnne Whitney (Williams)
My condolences to David's family. Many of them have a dear place in my heart & in my memories! So happy to see that David enjoyed a long life & a huge loving family! God Bless you all with comfort that only He can give as you mourn his loss!
From: E Harrigan
Dave was a most excellent man. He, along with his many wonderful attributes, was a rare gem who turned many a youngster into fine, hard working and morally directed men and women. I've been inspired by him and looked up to him for over 50 years. All my condolences to his many friends and loving family.
From: Rachel Rosenfeld
I’m so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. He was always so kind, encouraging and positive. Sending love to his family.
From: The Hilton Family
Our deepest condolences to your family.
From: Jack Louth
Dear Lyne
On learning of Dave’s passing my thoughts immediately flashed back to many conversations we enjoyed in the barn, the Surrey Trailer, in the store, the Races and other events. I respected Dave both as a fellow horseman and friend. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Age prevents me from attending Dave’s memorial but fond thoughts of you and Dave will always remain with me.
From: Anne Owen
Dear Lynn, my deepest condolences to you and your family following Dave’s passing. He will be so missed
and I’m so sorry for your loss.
From: Karen Widmayer
Lyn and family, I am so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful, authentic, funny and kind man - a huge loss for our world. We loved Dave and always looked forward to his quips and stories and shared philosophies. Karen
From: Karen and Kevin Kraushaar
Deepest condolences and sympathy going out to Alynne and all Dave’s family and friends.
From: Frederica Wheeler
Dear Lyn,
With great sorrow, I read of Dave's passing. What a loss for all of us, particularly you.
I remember Dave with such fondness at our PBHTA events. Particularly the ones at your beautiful farm. There he was, helping with the buffet on a beautiful evening.
Please accept my sympathy, Lyn.
I miss the Surrey and seeing you more often
Fondly,
Frederica