Philip R. Lane

The honorable Philip Robert Lane of San Angelo, 77, passed away Thursday, December 15, 2016 surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Ruth Lane, his two sisters Carol West and Nancy White, his three children Brian, David, and Erin Lane, and two grandchildren Tristen and Devaney Lane. Phil’s parents, Philip H. Lane and Margaret Murphy Lane, welcomed their son on February 12, 1939 at Shannon Hospital. Through his discipline, smarts and athleticism Phil graduated as Valedictorian and all district quarterback of Central High School, Class of ’57. He attended the United States Air Force Academy, completing a B.S. degree in 1961, as part of the third graduating class at USAFA. Phil served as a pilot in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965 and 1968 to 1969. After receiving his law degree from the University of Texas School of Law in 1968, Phil joined the law firm of Marshall, Hall, McLaughlin, and Lane in San Angelo. He was sworn in as a part-time United States Magistrate Judge for Northern District of Texas in 1971, and served as full-time magistrate judge in the Abilene and San Angelo divisions starting in 2003. Judge Lane was the longest-serving magistrate judge in the federal judiciary. Phil and Nancy married December 14, 1974 allowing them to celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary in the remainder of his precious time. It was with their unyielding mutual appreciation and love that allowed a relationship of support and care with each year of marriage. Within each of his high accomplishments, Phil gained strong friendships that he maintained and respected in every step of his life. From years of school to his established career, from playing sports to attending church, he found positivity and good in everyone. When not practicing law, Phil’s favorite things included handball, hunting, and keeping his children out of trouble. While this is a sad time, the family would like to continue to celebrate and acknowledge a man that wholeheartedly and consistently strived for the best. “Pro Nubis Astra” (for us the stars…) In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the YMCA, Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or a charity of your choice. A visitation will be held at Harper Funeral Home Sunday, December 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at First Christian Church on Monday, December 19, 2016 at 11:00 AM. Followed by internment at Fairmount Cemetery.