A basketball placed on the gymnasium floor


Future generations of students will remember a former custodian who passed away in August.

South Marshall Elementary School Janitor Robert Phillips is receiving recognition from the school district he served over the past two decades. The established employee had served the school by providing maintenance, keeping the building clean, and developing positive interpersonal relationships with the staff, students, and Kentucky-based community. In honor of the dedicated role Phillips played in creating a safe and healthy school environment, the Marshall County School system announced that it would be naming the elementary school’s gymnasium after him.

Phillips took pride in every aspect of his job, but he was particularly proud of the role he played in cleaning and maintaining the gymnasium floor. An avid basketball fan, he connected with many students about their interest in the sport, their progress if they played, and watching the game itself. This facet of his personality is what makes this dedication so sentimental to the staff and students who remember him best.

Known to all as “Mr. Roberts,” the beloved custodian made the difficult decision to retire at the end of the 2025-2026 school year due to a cancer diagnosis. He passed away two weeks following his departure, prompting former students and staff members to post their fond memories of the man who had left a lasting impact on their lives. In a Fox23 Now article, South Marshall Elementary School Principal Brad Darnall shared that Phillips’ influence demonstrates how essential his role was in supporting both the school and the people working within it.