Born to Vince and Eula Tarver in 1957, Phillip was raised as a member of our Lake Charles community. A product of southwest Louisiana public schools, Phillip graduated from LaGrange High School in 1976 before attending McNeese State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1981.
Since 1984, Phillip has been an active member of the Lake Charles business community, getting his start in a local CPA firm before joining the team at Lake Charles Nissan in 1984. He became managing partner in 1991. In 1997, he purchased Lake Charles Toyota, where his business model still rings true today: “where we know you by your name.” Today, Phillip, and his sons Eric and Corey, can still be seen working the showroom floor.
Phillip has made it his life’s mission to be of service to his community. Since 2000, Phillip has served in multiple capacities: Calcasieu Parish School Board (2000-2006), Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission (2007-2015), and Chairman of the Board of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, on top of countless philanthropic efforts.
In 1978, Phillip married his sweetheart, formerly DeWanna Corley. DeWanna runs the successful DeWanna’s Community Closet to help children in need with school supplies and uniforms. Together they had twin sons: Corey and Eric. They are also the proud grandparents of Miles, Millie, and Graham.
