Arthur “Art” Ray Philabaum, 78, of Brazil, passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis. Born on October 10, 1942, at his grandparents’ home in Parke County, he was the only child to Ernest “Ernie” and Leona “Toni” (Morlan) Philabaum.
Art graduated from Brazil High School in 1962. After high school, he worked for Columbia Records, Pillsbury and retired from AET (formerly Hercules).
In 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara White.
Art was well known as an avid Indy 500 fan, attending the race since childhood into late adulthood, stopping attendance only when his father was no longer able to attend with him. He loved collecting memorabilia from all forms of racing.
He was a big Colts fan and also supported all of the “home teams” including IU, Pacers and Notre Dame.
From an early age, he had a great love of music and dancing. His mother played piano in the family band, the 3Ms (Morlan Merry Makers), and as a child would go with her to dances, learning how to dance with everyone in attendance. His natural rhythm and talent were a joy to watch, even winning a Jitterbug contest with his mother when she was in her late 70s. She was so proud, telling everyone, “that’s my son”. His love music was well known to his family, and probably his neighbors, because on occasion, he would play it a little loudly.
In retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially spoiling his only grandchild, Shelby. He liked hanging out at “his booth” at Hardees joking around with everyone. He enjoyed many hobbies including playing pool, searching the antique stores for racing and Rock-N-Roll memorabilia and regularly walking the Northview/North Clay campus, stopping to watch the students practice sports and hearing the band. During the warm weather, he loved driving his wife around in his Corvette convertible, getting sandwiches and eating them by Philabaum Lake (yes, there really is a Philabaum Lake there) at Craig Park.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara, Brazil; and daughter, Leah Lawson and husband, John, Terre Haute; daughter, Shelly Greene and husband, Paul, and granddaughter, Shelby Greene, all of Brazil; as well as his devoted dog Cherokee, and many cousins and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and beloved dog, Cheyenne.
Because of COVID-19, a private family service will be held Monday at French Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Summit Lawn Cemetery.
If friends so desire, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Clay County Humane Society or the Brazil Church of the Nazarene.