CARLYLE 'DENNY' PHILLIPS, 60 LPD Detective LAKELAND - Carlyle 'Denny' Phillips, 60, passed away April 24, 2015, at home after a brave battle with cancer. Denny was born May 15, 1954, in Springville, NY. He moved to Lakeland in 1975 and was hired as a police officer with the Lakeland Police Department. During his career, Denny worked in various departments receiving many commendations and awards. He was the department's first pilot and first recipient of the Lone Eagle award for Aviation Heroism. Denny was head of security and the emergency response team during Sun 'n Fun Fly-In for 15 years. After retiring as a detective with LPD, Denny enjoyed hunting, traveling, spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends, and relatives in his hometown of Franklinville, NY. Denny especially enjoyed many breakfasts with the guys 'solving the world's problems.' Denny tackled every challenge with great enthusiasm. His clever wit and sense of humor always made us laugh. Denny is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Knowles Phillips, son, Shawn Phillips Reiko , stepson, Dalton Knowles, III Alicia , step daughter, Nicole Alvarez Peter , sister, Beth Anne Byroads, brothers, Timothy Phillips Julie , Carl Phillips Linda , and David Phillips, sister-in-law, Nancy Kahrs George , 8 grandchildren, several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom he was very proud. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2015, from 2 00-2 45pm at the Victory Assembly of God Chapel, 1401 Griffin Rd., Lakeland, with a memorial service starting at 3 00. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS, 66675. www.woundedwarriorproject.org