ROCKY MOUNT – Phillip Ray Baxley, age 65, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Born in Cumberland County, NC on March 16, 1960, he was the son of the late Roscoe Baxley and Helen Marie Locklear Myers. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Vanessa Baxley; brother, Roscoe Baxley Jr.
Phillip was a man whose heart was as big as his laugh and whose love for life was felt by everyone who knew him. An avid fisherman, he found peace and joy on the water, where patience and quiet reflection came naturally. Whether it was a calm morning casting a line or a late evening watching the sun dip below the horizon, fishing was where Phillip felt most at home.
He also had a passion for working on cars — not just as a hobby, but as a way to unwind and create. He could often be found under the hood, covered in grease and smiling ear to ear, proud of his handiwork and always ready to lend a hand to anyone who needed help fixing something.
Phillip had an infectious sense of humor and a quick wit that could light up any room. He loved to laugh, tell jokes, and bring joy to others. His laughter was the kind that stayed with you — warm, genuine, and full of life.
More than anything, Phillip loved his wife and family deeply. They were his world, his greatest joy, and the reason behind every smile and every bit of hard work. His love for them was steadfast and true, and his presence filled their lives with warmth, laughter, and love.
Phillip will be remembered for his big heart, his humor, his hard work, and his unwavering love for those closest to him. His memory will continue to live on in the stories told, the laughter shared, and the love that binds his family together.
Phillip is survived by his wife of 46 years, Stacey Lynn Baxley; sons, Christopher Ray Baxley (Beth), Brian Kelly Baxley (Laura); grandchildren, Jewelie Baxley, Madison Baxley, Brian Baxley, Jr., Adrian Baxley, Aven Baxley, Andrew Baxley; brothers, Dean Baxley (Mary), James Baxley (Marilyn); father-in-law, Stacey Oliphant, and his fur baby Coco.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 661 English Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Pastor Troy Wiley officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Forest Hill Cemetery. A visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45PM prior to the service in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Flowers are welcome.
Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 661 English Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com.
Services
Visitation: Thursday, October 9, 2025 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm
Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services
661 English Road
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 937-8886
info@johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com
Funeral Service: Thursday, October 9, 2025 2:00 pm
Johnson Funeral Home & Cremation Services
661 English Road
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
(252) 937-8886
info@johnsonfuneralsandcremations.com
Lynn, Chris, Beth, Brian, Laura and the Baxley family. I am deeply sorry for the loss of Phillip. He was very special to Beth as he quickly filled a void in her life left by her father’s passing. So much of his practical joking sense of humor was much like her daddy’s. I will miss hearing what he would have done next just to get a laugh from her. Please know I will continue praying for each of you as you journey into unknown territory. Debbie (Mama)
To Adrian, Aven and Andrew I am sorry for the loss of yet another grandfather and am so happy that you have memories to carry with you. I am sure he is filling your Papa in all about how wonderful you are. I love you all, Nana