About
This oral history interview with Justice George A. Phillips provides a comprehensive account of his life from his birth in Cornwall, Ontario in 1931 through his judicial career. Phillips came from a prominent Cornwall family – his grandfather Gordon Ross Phillips was a former mayor, and his uncles Dr. J.A. Phillips and Neil Phillips also served as mayors. After completing his legal education at Osgoode Hall and articling in Cornwall, Phillips practiced law in St. Catharines with Lancaster, Mix & Welch before joining Swift Canadian’s legal department in Toronto for a decade. In 1970, Phillips moved to St. Thomas, Ontario, where he quickly became involved in community activities and Progressive Conservative politics, managing several election campaigns including Ron McNeil’s successful 1971 provincial campaign. He practiced law briefly with Frank Sanders before establishing a partnership with Bill Herold. His community involvement included serving as president of the Rotary Club and working with various local organizations.