Photo Kevin Crockett TJ Phillip and his band perform to honor his father, TPhilly.
On Oct. 29, the Godwin gym was filled with music, dancing, and singing as faculty, students, and alumni gathered to honor the life of Godwin teacher Todd Phillips.
The TPhilly Birthday Bash was held to honor Phillips’ love for all things music and to pay homage to Phillips for his birthday on Oct. 30.
“TPhilly would have appreciated that people got together at a school he loved to enjoy a night of music. The bands were great, and we cannot thank Passion Academy enough for their help with the sound system and lights,” said AP Psychology teacher and friend of Phillips Mark Seidenberg.
The night began with music from juniors Coleman Bailey and Sam Taylor’s band GTG and was followed by the band Mis’Calculations.
Between each band change, the crowd headed to the commons to listen to seniors Michael Whitty and Erica Glines’ band Open Late.
“Being able to come together and celebrate the life of Todd Phillips through music and his Godwin family truly is heartwarming for everyone,” said Whitty.
Photo Kevin Crockett Mis’Calculations sings play their set for the Godwin students.
The night included a performance from one of Phillips’ sons, TJ Phillips, and his band TAP’d. They performed “Jungleland” by Bruce Springsteen and “Purple Rain” by Prince to honor Phillips’ love for both artists.
Before the final band took the stage, Phillips’ wife Kelly Phillips came on stage to thank everyone for coming.
“I want to thank everyone who made tonight happen and everyone who came out to support this. I know Todd is smiling and loving every minute of this,” said Kelly.
The last band to perform was Fordson Labs, consisting of Godwin, Freeman, and Deep Run alumni.
“Fordson Labs was really fun, and it was cool to see everyone who came out to support Mr. Phillips,” said junior Claire Bonney.
The Bash occurred just two days after the school board unanimously voted to change the center’s name to the Todd Allen Phillips Center for Medical Sciences.
Phillips was influential in changing the center’s focus from math and science to medical sciences. The new name was a result of letters and community support for the change.
“I think it is a really great thing that they are doing. Renaming the center is a great way to honor him and keep him in our hearts,” said junior Ajitha Bala.
