09/23/2026
Every year, one of the hardest and most important parts of the Chris Phillips Memorial Hog Hunt is choosing the family we will honor.
It’s never a decision we take lightly. It comes with a lot of prayer, a lot of thought, and somehow, every year, a few invisible strings seem to get pulled that lead us exactly where we are supposed to be.
This year was no different.
When we first heard Pup’s story, saw his beautiful family, and began reading the memories shared by the people who knew and loved him most, it didn’t take long to understand just how special he was, to see the similarities he shared with Chris, or to feel like Pup and his family were the perfect fit for everything our event represents.
Pup was a devoted husband, a loving daddy, an amazing son, brother, and a one-of-a-kind friend.
He had a positive attitude that allowed him to see the good in any situation. He was the kind of person who would give anything to help someone else—even a complete stranger… and to me, that makes him all the more fitting for an event that, at its heart, is about giving back.
Pup was so FULL of life.
He was spontaneous and adventurous. He loved music, sports, hunting, airboating on the lake, riding dirt bikes, traveling, and pretty much anything outdoors. He was competitive, the life of the party, and judging by everything we have learned about him, I have a feeling Pup would have really loved being a part of this tournament.
The Chris Phillips Memorial Hog Hunt has never been about focusing on the loss. It’s about celebrating the life they lived while they were here. It’s about sharing memories, continuing their legacy, letting the people who love them see just how many lives they continue to touch…
And most importantly, saying their name.
Because one of the greatest ways we can honor the people we love is to make sure their name continues to be spoken, their stories continue to be told, and the joy they brought to this world is never forgotten.
For the 7th Annual Chris Phillips Memorial Hog Hunt, we are incredibly honored to introduce the Whatley family and to celebrate the life of Pup. We feel so privileged to be trusted to honor such a special man.
We’re going to gather. We’re going to give to this family in their darkest hour. We’re going to celebrate a life well lived, and we’re going to say his name.
CECIL “PUP” WHATLEY- our WHY!
Mark your calendars, February 7, 2027.
