Derek “Matt” Phillippo, 37, of Indianapolis passed away in his home, surrounded by his family on December 29, 2016.  He was born on March 5, 1979 in Kokomo, Indiana to Morris Phillippo and Karen (Chilton) Shrewsbury.

Matt is a graduate of Pendleton Heights High School (1998) and attended Anderson University where he studied music business.  He was an accomplished musician, producer, singer and songwriter.  He played lead guitar of the band Sweet Reform and was formerly with the bands David with Stones, Ditty Back Down and Trazadon. He attended Daybreak Church in Lapel.

Matt will be lovingly remembered as a great friend to everyone he touched.  He was a big-hearted, giving and honest person with a selfless spirit that will not soon be forgotten.  He had a true desire to help humanity and to make the world a better place.  He loved relaxing with friends and collecting antiques.

Matt is survived by his mother;  his birth father, David Johnson of Kokomo;  four  sisters, Erin (Kit) Captain of Anderson, Lindsie Phillippo of Noblesville, Bailey Shrewsbury of Middletown and Chelsie (Ryan) Pendleton of Kokomo;  one brother, Austin (Ashley Hammon) Johnson of Kokomo; his former wife, Erin Phillippo of Cumberland; and his grandparents, Charles and Maureen Johnson of Flora and Russell (Toni Mullins) Chilton of Castroville, TX.  Many loving extended family members also survive.

Matt was preceded in death by his father; his sister, Jessica Phillippo;  his grandmother, Judy Chilton and grandparents Louis and Marie Phillippo.

No services are currently scheduled, but a festive celebration of Matt’s life will be held at a later date.