Phillip Donald Pridemore

Phillip Donald Pridemore, 48, of Davenport, IA, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his family.

Born September 17, 1977, in Wenatchee, Washington, to Cynthia (Pridemore) Herdt and the late T. J. Pridemore, Phillip attended school through high school in Entiat, Washington.

Over the years, Phillip performed a variety of jobs in Washington, Florida, Illinois, and Iowa and developed an array of skills. But he always loved cooking and food. It was almost a foregone conclusion that he would find his way to the hospitality industry, earning his way to the title of Chef.

And he loved being a chef, nurturing people with good food. Being a chef was hard work, but the kitchen was his sanctuary, where his passion met his purpose, and where he took pride in creative dishes that told a story. He perfected his recipes, often working long hours and plating dishes with close attention to detail.

In the culinary community, Phillip was recognized for his commitment to sustainability and community impact in the food industry. His work earned notable recognition through the Food Rescue Partnership’s “Food Rescue Warrior” award in 2022, which recognizes individuals in the Quad Cities who go above and beyond to ensure food is not wasted but is instead rescued and redistributed. Phillip’s approach combined professional culinary excellence with a strong environmental and community ethic, making him a standout example of a chef who integrates sustainability into daily operations.

He was generous with his knowledge and innovative techniques, always glad to share his techniques and devotion to the food industry with anyone who wanted to learn.

In addition to his passion for food, Philip loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Erica Coakley Pridemore, and four children, Brody Mark Brown, Thomas Wilson Pridemore, Kayana Rose Pridemore, and Chayton Michael Pridemore, who were all familiar with his propensity to come out with corny Dad jokes. His mother, Cynthia Herdt, and husband Michael reside in Entiat, Washington, where Phillip was raised. He was close to his elder brother, Thomas Jefferson Pridemore, his wife, Ryan, and their daughter, Madalyn Rose. Phillip also leaves numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends and colleagues who will miss him deeply. Not to mention a variety of cats who will miss being spoiled by Phillip’s attention. Family members, who often referred to him as “Uncle Giant,” witnessed him befriending many tiny kittens.

Phillip was a true music aficionado who embraced every genre and enjoyed creating his own music. He was a modest saxophone and guitar player and had a beautiful singing voice that was smooth and easy to listen to.

The family would like to thank the University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center of Iowa City and Genesis/Mercy One Hospice of Davenport for their caring and support during this difficult time.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are forever grateful for the love, laughter, and intensity Phillip brought into our lives. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his spirit will live in every story we tell, every smile he inspires, and every act of kindness he taught us to give. We will miss him more than words can ever say.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembering Phillip by gathering with friends for a good meal at a local restaurant and taking a moment to remember his legacy of flavor, generosity, and the belief that every meal with loved ones and friends could be a moment of joy.

The family will plan a future celebration of Phillip’s life (of course, with good food).

Cremation will be directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation and Direct Burial, Moline, IL.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on his memory page at www.mvcremation. com.