Chaplain Receives Statewide Employee Award

The Missouri Hospice & Palliative Care Association honored Dan Phillips, a Phelps Health Home Health and Hospice Department chaplain, with the 2025 Employee of the Year Award in Jefferson City on March 12. Dan was recognized for his outstanding dedication to hospice patients and their families.

“Dan's unwavering support in meeting our patient’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs makes him a true hospice superhero,” said Tabatha Ransom, director of Home Health and Hospice at Phelps Health. “His compassion and dedication set a remarkable example for all of us.”

Since joining Phelps Health as a chaplain in April 2022, Dan has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to providing compassionate end-of-life care. Initially hired on an as-needed basis, he quickly transitioned to a full-time chaplain role, embracing the mission of hospice care with unwavering dedication.

Dan is known for personalizing each funeral service to ensure every patient’s life is honored with dignity and respect. His dedication extends beyond traditional chaplain duties—he also uses his carpentry skills to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and their families. Whether building ramps for accessibility, constructing porches for comfort or crafting a custom casket for a patient’s family in need, Dan continually goes above and beyond to provide holistic care.

“I am so blessed to work with such wonderful people here at Phelps Health Hospice,” Dan said. “My director, Tabatha Ransom, and Hospice Manager Cindy Scearce are amazing and supportive. Jesus said to let our light shine before men, and I am so grateful that I work in an agency that allows me to do just that!”

“Dan’s compassion and creativity truly exemplify the high standards of quality care we strive for at Phelps Health,” said Linde Merrow, associate vice president of quality at Phelps Health. “His work impacts patients and their families and inspires our entire team to deliver care with empathy and respect.”