Philip Elijah Bruton, 98, of Bogue, Kansas passed away February 23, 2025, comfortably at his home. He was born September 9, 1926, in Guntown, Mississippi to Philip Elijah Bruton, SR. and Lelia (Tigrett) Bruton.
Philip grew up in the “Great Depression” and due to financial difficulties of the family he was sent to live with his mom’s oldest sister, Aunt “Lolly” and Uncle John Wright on a farm in Hornsby, Tennessee. Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the Navy. After his tour of duty, Philip attended college and worked as a steward with a commercial airline where he met Bonita Hocker who was a stewardess on the same airline. The two married and lived in Atlanta, Georgia where they had two children, Lige and Cass. Later the family moved to the Hocker Farm southeast of Hill City, Kansas, where he worked and where their third child, Ty was born. Philip later became the Postmaster at the Hill City Post Office until his retirement. He and Bonita were considered “Snowbirds” in their retirement years and would travel to Texas in the winter months to enjoy the warm temperatures and each other’s company.
Philip was a devoted, caring parent and a kind, soft-spoken gentleman. Family vacations were numerous and a highlight for all. Later vacations even included grandchildren.
Philip is survived by his son, Ty (Lynn) Bruton of Norton; grandchildren: Gabe of Minatare, Nebraska, and Zach (Angie) Bruton of Bogue, Keali Casper of Norton; great grandchildren: Lila, Kati and Kimi Casper of Russell, Elijah, Liam and Sammy Bruton of Bogue, and numerous other nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Bonita; son Lige, daughter Cass, a sister Mary (Bruton) Hovis, sister Marguerite (Bruton) McAlister, sister Helen (Bruton) Porter and brother George Bruton.
Philip asked to be cremated with no service, although a celebration of life will likely be planned at a later date.