Graveside service with full military honors for AT1 (Retired) Philip W. Balis will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Fort Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, Oklahoma with Pastor Don Pellikan, Asbury United Methodist Church, Denton, Texas officiating.

Services are under the direction of Becker-Rabon Funeral Home.

Philip Wesley Balis came into this world July 8,1933 in Vernon, Texas as the first-born son of Wiley Philip Balis and Cleo Winslett Balis. He left it Saturday, August 29, 2026, in Wichita Falls, Texas having lived 93 years, one month, and 19 days. In the final years of his life, he found a deep and abiding relationship with the Lord.

Philip graduated from Wichita Falls Senior High School in 1951 and soon entered the United States Navy, serving during the Korean War. For a period of that service, he was held as a prisoner of war. After the war, he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1964 and practiced law until answering another call to service, this time joining the United States Coast Guard and serving as a pilot.

Phil was a lifelong student of the martial arts and had earned his black belt in karate by the early 1970's. He often credited his study of the discipline with his longevity and emotional well-being.

Beyond the uniforms, the courtrooms, and the long passage of years, Philip was an accomplished musician. He loved guitars and collected them in all their forms. Music followed him through much of his life, and some of his happiest hours were spent playing with family or sitting beside someone who wanted to learn.

He is survived by his wife Kelly Hinkle-Balis of the home in Iowa Park, his son Daniel Balis of Dallas, Texas; his daughter Shelly Sipley, Syracuse, New York; his grandchildren Joshua Balis, Malcolm Balis and Helena Sipley; and his sister Mary Ann Perkins, Iowa Park. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Wanda Dickson; his brothers, Garry Balis and Dale Balis.

An online guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.beckerfuneral.com