Longtime Monmouth Resident Phillip Morris Porter Dies at 85

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Phillip M. Porter, a lifelong resident of Monmouth, Illinois, passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 85. Porter worked at Maytag in Galesburg for 35 years before retiring, and was an active member of the community, coaching baseball and playing golf. He is survived by his daughter, four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Porter's passing marks the end of an era for Monmouth, as he was a fixture in the community for decades, known for his community involvement and friendly demeanor. His obituary provides a glimpse into the life of a hardworking, family-oriented man who left a lasting impact on those around him.

The details

Phillip M. Porter was born in 1941 in Madison, Wisconsin, and was raised and educated in Monmouth, graduating from Monmouth High School in 1959. He married Sheryl J. Hewitt in 1960, and the couple had two children together. Porter worked at Gambles in York, Nebraska, before moving back to Monmouth and working at Maytag in Galesburg for 35 years, retiring as a superintendent. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Monmouth and was active in the community, coaching baseball for the Lions League in the 1970s and later coaching Legion Baseball. Porter enjoyed playing golf and had two holes-in-one, and also loved mowing his lawn and riding his John Deere mower.

• Phillip M. Porter was born on March 5, 1941.
• Porter graduated from Monmouth High School in 1959.
• Porter married Sheryl J. Hewitt on May 20, 1960.
• Sheryl J. Hewitt passed away on March 29, 2017.
• Phillip M. Porter passed away on March 22, 2026.