Kenneth Wallace Phillips Jr.

Kenneth Wallace Phillips Jr, known to friends and family as Kenny, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at the age of 78 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Born on April 4, 1947, in Poughkeepsie, New York to Madeline and Kenneth Phillips, Kenny moved to Las Vegas with his family in 1951. 

A lifelong mechanic, Kenny dedicated his career to the automotive industry. He owned and operated Kens Auto Wrecking and Phillips Performance, businesses that became staples in the Las Vegas area. His expertise and passion for cars were evident in every project he undertook.

Kenny was a passionate drag racing enthusiast. He spent countless weekends at the Las Vegas Speedrome, racing both front and rear engine AMC dragsters. His favorite car was a 1969 AMX which he raced in the nostalgia series. Kennys presence at the track was more than that of a competitor; he was a mentor to many sharing his knowledge and passion with many racers along the way.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Madeline Phillips. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Julie; their daughter Karen (Tanner); son Kevin; brother Bruce; and four grandchildren: Gavin, Emily, Ava, and Trevor. Kennys legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched in the automotive and racing communities. May he race on! XLR8

Services will be held Saturday May 31st at 11:00am at Central Church-Sunrise Mountain, 1460 Tree Line Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89142.