A book signing featuring “Trophy of Grace,” the latest work of missionary emeritus and author Jean Phillips, will be held July 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Cooper Dining Room at Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Community in Laurens.

The book, to be released in early July, is the story of Phillips’ late husband, Gene Phillips, who along with his wife served for more than 40 years as a Southern Baptist missionary in Zimbabwe. Recounting how God has worked throughout their lives, “Trophy of Grace” focuses on Gene Phillips, his life, his ministry, and the love he had for God and his family.

In the words of the book’s editor: “In a touching tribute that reads more like a novel than a biography, Jean highlights the many God-moments from her late husband’s days. These moments included his tumultuous childhood, their courtship that led to 61 years of marriage and four children, their ministry and adventures on the mission field, and Gene’s big-game hunting, as well as his final home-going.”

After retirement as full time missionaries, the Phillipses moved to Camden and served as active members of First Baptist Church. During that time they returned several times to different countries in southern Africa as mission volunteers. In 2011, the Phillipses moved to Martha Franks Retirement Community, where Jean Phillips still resides.

Previously, Jean Phillips co-authored with her husband “Gleanings from God’s Word,” a daily devotional book. In addition, she authored “Rescue,” a book recounting the Phillips’ kidnapping in Lesotho; “The Watered Garden,” the story of her mother’s life; and “The Meaning of Christmas,” a children’s book.

Bruce Hancock, pastor of Camden First Baptist Church, who was one of the first to read “Trophy of Grace,” said, “Woven throughout the story of God’s call and His care of Gene and Jean Phillips is a beautiful love story  —of their deep love for each other and their even deeper love for the Lord, who sustained them during their 40 years of mission service in Zimbabwe. You will be inspired, encouraged, and challenged as you read the account of this ‘trophy of grace’.”

“Trophy of Grace” will be on sale for $10 at the Martha Franks book signing on July 12, and Phillips will be available to sign copies. For those who cannot attend the book signing, books can be ordered by sending a name and address with a check or money order for $15 (includes shipping and handling) to Jean Phillips at Martha Franks Baptist Retirement Community, 1 Martha Franks Drive, Laurens, S.C., 29360.

Books will also be available for sale in the Martha Franks gift shop as well as the Kershaw Baptist Association office at 14 East DeKalb St. in Camden, S.C.