Phillip Richard Cimei Jr.

Phillip Richard Cimei Jr., 46 years old of Shawnee, Oklahoma, tragically passed away on June 17, 2025. Phillip was born in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, on May 5, 1979, to Phillip and Violet “Lois” (Johnson) Cimei.

Phillip graduated from Caney Valley Schools and immediately entered the Air Force. He served his country honorably for eight years, including deployments in support of Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He received countless awards and decorations for his outstanding service. He held this time in the Air Force dear to his heart and cherished the everlasting friendships made while serving his country.

Phillip adored his family and made them feel loved. He made the time to call, even if it was just to say, “I love you.” He was the most giving and generous soul, and never met a stranger.

Phillip was a friend to everyone. His unique laugh, friendly greeting, and unforgettable smile touched the hearts of so many throughout his brief life. He didn’t leave behind many personal items or worldly possessions because he was always giving them away to those in need.

Phillip was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Delbert and Violet Johnson; paternal grandparents, Alfred and Olive Cimei; aunt Carol Cimei; aunt Arlene Johnson; and uncle David Johnson.

Phillip is survived by his parents, Phillip Richard Sr. and Violet “Lois” Cimei of Tecumseh, OK; sister, Tracy Foster of Owasso, OK; sister, Tammy and husband Jody Passmore of Kailua-Kona, HI; sister, Kristi Cimei of Tulsa, OK; brother, Michael and wife Brenna Cimei of Silsbee, TX; brother, Matt Cimei of Maud, OK; brother, Mark and wife Beatrice Cimei of Shawnee, OK; nieces: Taylor Foster, Zerroura Cimei, and Brittany Matthews; nephews: Christopher Foster, Will Passmore, Cyrus Cimei, Asher Cimei, Titus Cimei, Kash Townsend, Shane Clark, and Ace Clark. He is also survived by so many friends that he made during his life.

There will be a memorial gathering on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, at AE Funeral Services Chapel, 603 W. Independence St., Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Seaman First Class Billy Turner Ardmore Veterans Cemetery, 1555 Myall St., Ardmore, Oklahoma 73401.