On March 30, 1943, a baby boy was born from the union of Phillip L. and Ethel [Johnson] Porter, Sr. He was named Phillip Laurence Porter, Jr. He attended Muskogee Public Schools and as a young child, he started his Christian journey at Old Agency Baptist Church. He was loved by all who knew him, always smiling and lending a hand when needed.

He met and married Billy Jo Porter, who preceded him in death, but left him a wonderful daughter and 3 grandchildren. He worked to provide for his family in Heavy Equipment Operation and was a certified D.O.T. Truck Driver. He was also an independent Cab Driver both in Muskogee and Tulsa. He also drove bus for the church as well as Muskogee Schools.

Later in life, Phillip met and married Verna Williams and they have remained in love, experiencing devotion, companionship for 32 years. Mr. Porter had a passion for young people, always nurturing them. He will especially be missed by those who affectionately called him "PaPa." His grandchildren were the love of his life.

Mr. Porter, with his devoted wife near, "dozed into eternal peace" on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009 from his home in Muskogee. Those that wait on the Lord; his wife, Verna, of the home; 11 children, Phillip, III [Felicia], Vernell, Joseph, Adrian [Brittney], Gene [LaShana] and Jamon Porter, all of Muskogee, Juan Moore [China], Jonathan Moore [Daria], Maringouin, LA and Donald Moore [Syretta], Muskogee, Edith Jo Payne, Rowlett, TX and Alicia Campbell, Muskogee; 45 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; a brother, Vernon Burkhalter and other siblings on the Burkhalter side of the family; and a caravan of other relatives and friends.

The Hour of Remembrance will commence on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009 at 2 PM in the Divine Love Christian Fellowship. Pastor Michael Webber, the gracious host Pastor and Rev. Aundrea H. Jones, Officiating. Burial will follow in Booker T. Washington Cemetery. Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc., is serving the family. You may visit Mr. Porter, as he slumbers in peaceful repose, at the funeral home on Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Friends may convey condolences and sign the online register at www.biglowfunerals.com.

Comfort, Care & Understanding