Phillip Edward Lathan

Phillip Edward Lathan was born November 04, 1953 to the union of Harold and Velma Lathan in Portland, Oregon. Phil attended Highland Grade School, where he and his siblings marched and protested to change the school to what is now known as “Martin Luther King Elementary”. Phil attended Jefferson High School, where he played baseball, football and basketball. During Phil’s time at Jefferson he won the 1972 Basketball State Championship. Phil received many awards for his amazing athletic abilities throughout his early years. After graduating from Jefferson, he began working at The National Shirt Shop from 1979-1982. He later worked at Goldberg with some of his close cousins.

Phil had his first and only daughter on September 20, 1983. A few years later he had his two son’s Jeremy and Joshua Lathan.

Phil was well known to many around Portland Oregon as the quick talking man that didn’t take no mess. One thing about Phil he was dressed from head to toe all day every day and would pose often to show off his nice attire. He had a walk that could be recognized miles away, many family members joked calling him “George Jefferson” because of his infamous walk. He was a very proud man! He thought and was told on many occasions how he resembled “Sammie Davis Jr.”, he heard that there was a search on the Oprah Winfery show for a look alike, he sent his picture in to the show. Although he was very excited about this possible gig he did not get the job, but he loved to tell that story.

Phil spent his last few years working at NW Affordable Auto closely with his nephew/son Anthony Lathan Jr. and sister in law Towanda. It was typical to find him standing around the shop doing his talk and making everyone around him laugh. Phil has always been very smart and enjoyed challenging others on their knowledge of different topics. He joined Son’s of Haiti MW St. Joseph’s Grand Lodge AF-AM Mt Olive Grand chapter Order Of The Eastern Star “The Mason’s” in 2019, he was dedicated to the oath of his brotherhood. Phil was a great man who was loved by many and will be truly missed by us all.

Preceding Phil in his death are his Parents: Harold & Velma Lathan, Brothers: Donnie & Eddie Ray Lathan. Sisters: Carol Lathan & Phyllis Lathan-Hennon.

He leaves to cherish his memories his three children, Alexandria Lathan, Jeremy Lathan & Josh Lathan (Hermandra). Siblings: Denise Lathan, Dewayne Lathan & Anthony Lathan (Towanda). Grandchildren: Kaliceon Lewis, Kiahjai Lewis, Kimora Lathan, Unique Burditt, Mathias Burditt, Dakari Lathan, Bonita Lathan, Kassidy Lathan, Kinzley Lathan . Great grandchildren: Ka’Cye Lewis & Kylan Lewis and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

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