A day after K Street found out that longtime lobbyist William Phillips died in an Alaska airplane crash that also killed ex-Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), the Phillips family said he will live on through his four sons — one of whom survived the crash.

The Phillips family “would like to extend their deepest condolences to the other families touched by loss or injury in this tragic accident and would like to thank the heroes that assisted in all aspects of search and rescue operation,” a statement on behalf of the family said. “They would also like to thank Providence Hospital for the extraordinary attention and care that has been extended to their entire family.”

Phillips, 56, was among the five people that died in the crash, along with the former Alaska GOP Senator. Four people survived the crash, including Phillips’ son, William Phillips Jr.

Phillips was a partner in the boutique lobbying firm Utrecht & Phillips. He specialized in legislative law and Congressional procedure. From 1981 to 1986, he served as Stevens’ legislative director and chief of staff.

“Bill Phillips was a devoted husband and father,” his family’s statement said. “He was a man of deep faith who lived for his family, was kind, generous and believed in the goodness of every individual. Bill was a successful entrepreneur and a gifted attorney whose wisdom and insights into life, law and public policy were sought by many.”

“Bill was always the first to step in, lend a helping hand, and indeed provide leadership when others were in need, a rock upon which many relied for support and counsel during the toughest of times. But first and foremost he will be remembered for the extraordinary love, commitment, faith and wisdom he gave to his family. His legacy will live on through his four boys and the tremendous impact he had on their lives.”

Former Stevens staffers Jim Morhard, founder of Morhard & Associates, and Sean O’Keefe, head of EADS North America, also survived the crash.