Phillip Henry Dingus

Phillip Henry Dingus, a beloved US Army veteran, peacefully passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Kingsport, Tennessee. Born on March 28, 1944, in Scott County, Virginia, Phillip dedicated his life to service — both to his country and through his long-standing career at the Kingsport Press, from which he retired with great pride.

Phillip served honorably in the United States Army from 1962 to 1964. His commitment to his fellow veterans continued through his membership in the American Legion Post 265 in Gate City. His dedication to duty and community reflected a life lived with honor and integrity.

Family was the cornerstone of Phillip’s life. He was the loving husband to Rita Ann Howington Dingus for 59 years, sharing a lifelong bond until her passing. He was the cherished son of Troy and Marie Dingus, and brother to Judy Kathleen Dingus Qualls, all of whom have preceded him in death.

He leaves behind a devoted family who continue to cherish his memory. His son, Shannon Dingus, and fiancé, Crystal Stapleton; daughter and son-in-law, Devonne and Frank Hutchins; grandchildren Cody and Courtney Dingus, Jordan and Kathy Thacker, Courtney and Gio Watford, Destiny and Tyler Creech, as well as Dylan Stapleton and his girlfriend Holly Wagner; and great-grandchildren Paisleigh Dingus, Paxtyn Dingus, Brady, Brennan, Atlas, and Cyrus Thacker, Griffin and Genson Watford, and Laynee and Bentley Creech carry forward Phillip’s legacy of love and family unity. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Delmar Qualls.

The family extends profound gratitude to Sue Pendleton, Phillip’s special friend and caregiver, whose compassionate support brought comfort and care. A sincere thanks is also given to Brooke Johnson for her dedicated attention and care. 

Military honors will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Pendleton's Freewill Baptist Church, 7591 Rye Cove Memorial Rd, Ft. Blackmore, VA. with American Legion Hammond Post #3/#265 providing the rites. Everyone planning to attend is asked to meet at the church at 3:45 pm. 

The family will receive friends immediately following until 5:00 pm when funeral services will begin with Pastor Kevin Sanders and Pastor Samuel Newland officiating. Music will be provided by Jeff Watson. Burial will follow the service in the Dingus-Presley Cemetery. 

Pallbearers will be Frank Hutchins, Cody Dingus, Larry Howington, Charlie Dingus, Jr., Alan Howington, and Eddie Howington.

Phillip Henry Dingus’s life was marked by devotion—to his country, his work, and most deeply, to his family. He will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who knew him, a man whose steady presence and kind heart left an indelible mark. May his memory be a blessing to those who loved him.