Mary C. Phillips

Mary Phillips was born on Wednesday, September 10, 1941 in Isola, Mississippi, and was the youngest of six siblings, all who have preceding her in death, to the union of William and Maggie Cooper. She was called home on Sunday, October 5, 2025 to receive her eternal reward.

Mary’s parents both passed while she was a teenager and she learned early to survive difficulty and have a big heart. She faced hardships and triumphs, but learned to trust in His merciful ways.

No matter the name – she was affectionately known as Mary, Ms. Mary, Sister Phillips, Mrs. Phillips, Momma, Mom, Granny, and Aunt Mary, throughout her character remained the same. She was a friend, sister, aunt, and mentor to many and made this world a better place. Mary’s sweetness will be remembered. Mary was truly a Mother and Grandmother that loved the best she could. Mary moved to Cincinnati, Ohio in 1966 and worked hard to raise and provide a good life for her children. Mary worked for 25 years and retired from Cincinnati Bell, as a Telephone Operator, and then worked for H&R Block for 27+ years as recent as April 2025.

Mary was a member of the First Baptist Church of Kennedy Heights for over 42 years, she served gracefully in numerous ministries, inclusive of Sunday School Superintendent, Vacation Bible School Director and Teacher, Church Trustee, Food Pantry, The Caring Place Ministries and the church’s Beautification Committee and more. Her stewardship of saying “Yes, send me!” mirrored her faithfulness in God. Sister Phillips enjoyed important church milestones, jewelry, clothes and especially her family. Her most cherished memories are those spent with her children, family and friends during holidays, and family reunions.

Mary was an active member in her Kennedy Heights Community, where her neighbors referred to her a pillar on her street, always exemplifying love and kindness. Her personal petition to God was to enable her to be better and serve Him.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, William and Maggie; her five siblings, Collin, Robert, Curtis, Catherine, Charlie C; and her ex-husband, West Phillips.

Mary leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children, Sharon Brown, Anthony Phillips and Wanda Phillips; her beloved grandchildren, Justin Phillips, Phoenix “Nyree” Brown; and Jalen Phillips; her extended family, Sister Diana Ewing and her niece, Minister LaShaunda Ewing: godson Demetrius McCant and a host of beloved relatives, church family, neighbors and friends.

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