Pastor Phillip James Wishon, Sr.

Pastor Phillip James Wishon, Sr. made the crossing into everlasting life because he was a whosoever (John 3:16 KJV) on the evening of Friday, May 15, 2026 with those he loved by his side.

Phillip was born November 12, 1954 in Surry County, North Carolina to the late Arthur James Wishon and Bonnie Naomi McCoyle- (Willis). He was also preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Nelson and Tracy Caudle, who adopted him at an early age.

He devoted his life to his family, Catawba Falls Baptist Church, which he pastored for 26 years until his death, and the vision for the children’s home, Caleb’s Home, in Old Fort, North Carolina. His first assignment from the Lord was the prison ministry where he joined up with Rock of Ages Prison Ministry established in Cleveland, Tennessee. He served with some great men of God who mentored him in the ministry.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Luella Price Wishon, of the home and their furry feline companion, Puff; his daughter, Angela McEntire (Nick); his son, Phillip James Wishon, Jr. (Jessica); three grandchildren, Alissa Ellison (Cameron), Penelope Wishon, Nathaniel McEntire and fiancée Elizabeth Wise; one great-grandson, Braxton Ellison who all love their Paw; and his siblings, Belinda Minton, Patti Jefferies, Dael McCoyle, and Duane McCoyle.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the Beam Celebration Center. The funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m. with Pastors Rick Burton, David Edwards, and Marvin Hollifield officiating. Interment will be at Bethlehem Community Cemetery with Pastor Andy McDevitt officiating and with military honors provided by the United States Army.

He leaves behind a great legacy and heritage, and his testimony will live on in the lives of many.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are encouraged to be made to Ebenezer Christian Children’s Home, 1006 Byrd Ridge Road, Wilkesboro, NC 28659. Please put “Caleb’s Home” in the memo line.