Obituaries

Name:

" Arthur Anslem Dehenleye Phillips "

Also Known As

Anslem, DD & affectionately called Daddy

D.O.B:

11/17/1943

D.O.D

02/12/2026

Country From:

Trinidad

State / Parish:

Tobago

District

Plymouth

Place of Death

Laurelton, New York, USA

Service Date

02/28/2026

11:00am

Details:

The funeral for the late Anslem Phillips will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Grace Episcopal Church located at 155-15 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11434. The viewing will be held from 11am-12pm followed by the funeral service at 12pm. Please give your condolences to the Phillips family.

Special Info

Arthur Anslem Dehenleye Phillips, lovingly known as "Anslem," "DD," and also affectionately called "Daddy," was born in Plymouth, Tobago to Bobby and Meretta Phillips (both deceased). He was the second of seven children and grew up surrounded by love, music, and community.

Anslem attended Plymouth EC School. As a young boy in Plymouth, he had a deep love for music and creativity. He enjoyed playing the steel pan, football, and was an avid kite maker. He proudly taught many of the younger boys in the village how to make and fly kites, and he also taught his younger siblings how to pitch marbles. Music was always a part of his life; he played the steel pan at St. David's Anglican Church in Plymouth once a month, sharing his talent and passion with his community.

In 1969, Anslem migrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn, New York, where he lived with his parents and siblings. He carried with him big dreams and a vibrant personality. His ambition was to become a calypsonian, and he loved playing the harmonica and guitar, often singing alongside his cousins Carlson and Bertney. Music, laughter, and good company were constant themes throughout his life.

Anslem worked at Shoreview Nursing Home for over 20 years, where he was known as a dedicated worker and a friend to everyone he encountered. His warm spirit and easygoing nature made a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He loved to dress sharp and make a statement wherever he went. With his stingy brim hat, big afro, long mink coat, and red shoes, he carried a style reminiscent of the bold 1970s era. His red Cadillac was his pride and joy—his "baby." He loved to party, enjoy life, and was proudly known as "Brooklyn Boy." Wherever there was music and good vibes, Anslem was sure to be there.

Above all, he loved his children deeply. To them, he was simply "Daddy," their protector and biggest supporter. In his eyes, they could do no wrong. "DD," as he was affectionately called by his nieces and nephews, had a generous heart. Nothing was ever too much to give when it came to his family. He showed his love through his presence, his laughter, and his unwavering support.

Anslem was the proud father of 12 children: Esther, Cherilyn, Avalon, Shawn, Raheim, Shannon, Darren, Aysha, Keiron, Alycha, Malicah and Amyka. He also leaves behind his beloved sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, 36 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren who will continue to carry on his legacy.

He is also survived by his siblings: Merle, Epotene, Maudlyn, Maudica, and Selwyn; his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Simeon, Earl, Garry, and Veronica; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Anslem's life was filled with music, style, laughter, and love. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him.

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