Mark was born on September 30, 1994, in St. John’s Antigua & Barbuda to Agnola Gloade and Mark C. Phillips, Sr. He was the fourth of seven children – a proud son, a devoted father, a caring brother and a loyal friend. From the moment he came into this world, Mark brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He had a spark in his eyes, an energy that could light up a room, and a heart that seemed to have endless space for everyone.
Many of us knew Mark as the life of the party. If there was music playing, you could count on him to be dancing. If people were quiet, you could count on him to crack a joke or start a conversation. He was the “hype man.” The entertainer, the one who made sure everyone around him felt included and happy. His laughter was contagious, his humor unforgettable, and his spirit larger than life.
But behind that energy and laughter was a man with a deep and gentle soul – someone who cared deeply for the people he loved. The greatest joy in his life was his daughter Ma`Lani A. Phillips. If you ever saw the two of them together, you knew their bond was truly special. They were inseparable-going on daddy-daughter dates, sharing inside jokes, and creating moments that will live forever in Ma`Lani’s heart. She called him her “bestie,” and to Mark, being her father wasn’t just a role-it was his proudest accomplishment.
Mark’s journey took him from Clarehall Secondary and All Saints Secondary School in Antigua to Irvington High School in the United States, where he continued to shine. He had a love for track and field and became known as a strong determined athlete who gave his all in everything he did. That same drive carried into his studies at Essex County College, where he pursued business, always striving to create a better future for himself and his family.
To his siblings-Roshell, Raymonde`, Markade, Marcus, Mariah, and Maruez-Mark wasn’t just a brother, he was a best friend. He was the one you could call when you needed a laugh, advice, or just someone to talk to. To his extended family and friends, he was a source of love, energy, and encouragement.
Mark lived his life fully, unapologetically, and with love. He taught us that family is everything, that laughter is healing, and that joy can be found in the simplest moments. Even though his time with us was far too short, he filled it with enough love, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.
He leaves to celebrate his memory and continue his legacy:
His loving and devoted mother Agnola Gloade.
His Father Mark C. Phillips, Sr.
His Stepdad Alvin Benjamin.
His cherished Daughter Ma`Lani A. Phillips.
His Grandmother: Geneto Gloade.
His aunties and uncles: Jeremiah Gloade & spouse, Hanzel Gloade & spouse, Elvis Gloade, Samuel Gloade & Spouse, Deborah Moore, Hugh Gloade & Spouse, Ray (Malik) Gloade & spouse, Everton Gloade, Murphy Gloade & spouse, Leon Gloade & spouse, Gwendolyn Seabastin, Steve Phillips, Stewart Phillips, Michael Phillips, Mitchell Phillips, Thurston Phillips, Selma Phillips, and Wendy Phillips.
His Great aunties and Great uncle: Roma Gloade, Ines Mussington, Rosalyn Yearwood, Ineta Brown, Ira Joseph and Neville Brown.
And a vast extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends both here and abroad.
His Godmother: Anita Greenaway, and his teacher: Danielle Brathwaite.
As we say goodbye today, let us not focus on the sadness of his passing, but on the beauty of his life. Let’s remember his smile, his dancing, his laughter that could fill a room. Let’s carry forward his spirit-his joy, his love, his light-and keep it alive in our own hearts.
Mark, we love you. We thank you for every moment, every laugh, every hug, and every memory. You were truly one of kind, and though you may no longer walk beside us, your presence will never fade.
Rest peacefully, Polo.
You will always be remembered.