Phillip Leon Champion, 63, of Mill Spring, N.C. passed away Monday, Aug. 8, 2011 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center.

Born Nov. 7, 1947 in Polk County, he was the son of the late Hugh B. and Daisy T. Champion. A graduate of Polk Central High School, Class of 1968, Mr. Champion loved farming, horses and mules, family and friends.  He was a member of Pea Ridge Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Becky Blanton Champion; two daughters, Melissa Young (Norris) of Forest City, N.C, and Crystal Adair of Forest City. Also surviving are one sister, Brenda Lanford (Mickey) of Green Creek.; five grandchildren, Tyler Bishop, Jessica Owens, Morgan Bishop, Cameron Patrick and Chandler Patrick; and a great-grandchild, Gunnar Owens.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Hoyt Champion (Martha); and a grandson, Austin Bishop.

Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011 in the McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon, with Rev. Gene Champion and Rev. Jeff Parker officiating.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011 prior to the services in the McFarland Funeral Chapel.

A private burial will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Beulah Baptist Church at 123 Beulah Church Rd. Tryon, NC 28782-8886.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com. McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon.