October 1, 1956 – February 22, 2026
Phillip Morris Vawter, 69, Sheridan, passed away at home on Sunday, February 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, son-in-law, and his beloved dog, Gus.
Phil was born on October 1, 1956, in Noblesville, the youngest of four children of Samuel Morris and Betty Ann (Merrill) Vawter. He graduated from Marion-Adams High School in 1975 and soon began building a life centered on hard work, family, and quiet devotion to those he loved.
On November 12, 1977, Phil married Tina Jo Burgett at Sheridan First Christian Church. The two grew up just one road apart and started dating in high school, beginning a partnership that would span nearly five decades. Next year would have marked their 50th wedding anniversary – a testament to a lifetime of shared commitment, laughter, and love.
Phil’s working life reflected his steady character and strong work ethic. He began hauling grain for Jones Trucking before purchasing his own semi to haul steel. In the early ‘80s, he joined UPS as a feeder driver, where he spent nearly two decades building a reputation for reliability and dedication as a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local No. 135.
Though he took pride in his work, Phil’s greatest joy was always his family. He loved time spent together – whether woodworking, hunting, fishing, or simply sharing stories and laughter. He enjoyed westerns, classic rock, and outlaw country music, especially Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. He also had a special love for animals, none more than his loyal black Labrador Retriever, Gus.
Those who knew Phil will remember his wonderful – and often ornery – sense of humor, his quiet nature, and the kindness that defined him. Despite his large stature, he was a gentle giant with a generous heart and a deep care for others. Phil was baptized at Sheridan Wesleyan Church and carried his faith with quiet steadiness throughout his life.
Phil is survived by his devoted wife, Tina Jo Vawter; his daughters, Christina Vawter of Sheridan and Megan (John) Ward of Greencastle; his sister, Pamela (Bill) Hintalla of Michigan; his aunt, Norma (Donald) Hall of Carmel; sisters-in-law, Janet (Keith) and Wanda (Richard) Vawter; his canine BFF, Gus; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Morris and Betty Ann (Merrill) Vawter; his brothers, Keith and Richard Vawter; and his beloved Labrador Retrievers, Riley and Buddy.
A celebration of Phil’s life will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2026, at Sheridan First United Methodist Church, 207 E. Second St., Sheridan, with visitation from 4 p.m. until the time of service.
Pastor John Meunier will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Pals for Paws, the organization responsible for rescuing Gus, at palsforpawsinc.com, or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at pancan.org, where they are working to detect the disease earlier and bring promising treatments to patients sooner.
Phil will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady presence, and the deep love he showed to his family every day of his life.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kercheval Funeral Home in Sheridan.
Condolences: kerchevalfuneralhome.com