The announcement came during a Tuesday press conference with head football coach Dabo Swinney, who was hired by Phillips.
“There are no words to state his impact for me and for Clemson,” Swinney said to reporters. “It’s a very sad day, but it’s also a blessing because I know he is not suffering anymore. I know he is whole.”
Phillips served as the Tigers' athletic director for 10 years until his retirement in 2012. Swinney, who is the winningest football coach in Clemson's history, isn't the only hire Phillips is credited for. During his tenure, he also hired Brad Brownell, Clemson's winningest men's basketball coach. Other notable hires include men’s soccer coach Mike Noonan and women’s soccer coach Eddie Radwanski.
Phillips was diagnosed with dementia after his 2012 retirement. He was inducted into the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019.
Under Phillips’ direction, Clemson won 13 ACC championships in eight sports.
