Phillip Jerome Barnwell

Phillip Jerome Barnwell

Phillip Jerome Barnwell, 86, of Colleyville, Texas, passed away on May 12, 2026. 

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Phil moved to Daingerfield, Texas at the age of 15. While attending high school there, he formed many lifelong friendships that he treasured throughout his life. After graduation, Phil joined the United States Marine Corps. Following his service, he moved to Mount Pleasant, Texas, where he met and later married the love of his life, Anita Easley. In 1966, Phil began a 34-year career with Bell Helicopter. 

In 1982, Phil, Anita, and their son Chris moved to Colleyville. Phil loved their neighborhood and became a familiar face every Halloween, setting up a table in the front yard to serve chili to trick-or-treaters. Known affectionately by neighborhood children as the “Chili Man,” he will also be remembered by family and friends for his amazing brisket and homemade barbecue sauce. Sadly, his secret chili recipe appears to have been retired along with him. 

Beyond his talents with the grill and smoker, Phil was a gifted builder and fixer who never hesitated to tackle almost any project. Whether repairing, creating, or improving something, he approached it with patience, skill, and determination. 

On the first Wednesday of every month, Phil enjoyed attending the Colleyville Garden Club monthly meeting, followed by lunch with several of his longtime retired Bell Helicopter friends. He loved Colleyville and enjoyed supporting his favorite city officials. Those gatherings, friendships, and community connections meant a great deal to him.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Dovie Barnwell, along with many beloved aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Anita; son Christopher and wife Anne; grandchildren Christopher Jr. and wife Christy Nguyen, and Jessica and husband Nathan Adams; and step-grandchildren Amelia and Victor Woods.

 A celebration of life is being planned for a June 4th at the Bessie Mitchell House in Grapevine. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.