Philip Alston Willcox was born in Marion, South Carolina on December 5, 1866, the son of John Willcox and Sarah Clark Willcox. He graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1887. He studied law under Charles A. Woods and, after being admitted to the Bar in 1889, practiced law with Mr. Woods.
In 1894, Philip Alston Willcox and his cousin, Frederick Leroy Willcox, formed the partnership of Willcox and Willcox.
He had a keen mind, was quick in perception, powerful in analysis, and could resolve an intricate legal problem with ease.
He was Division Counsel, and later General Solicitor, for Atlantic Coastline Railroad. He was on the Board of Trustees of the University of South Carolina and President of the South Carolina Bar from 1919 to 1920. He died on February 16, 1922.
Philip Alston Willcox was a good man, lawyer and a gentleman. To know him would enrich your life.