Charles Jeffrey Phipps

November 17, 1959-November 16, 2021

Jeffrey left his home for a place of abundant kindness and love on Tuesday, November 16. The family and many friends feel the loss of Jeffrey’s good humor and cheerful ways. In all the places he went during his full and busy life, he made friends and made people laugh. He enjoyed music ranging from musicals to Elvis Presley to symphony and opera. He loved superheroes, especially Spiderman and the Hulk, and going to school dances. He trekked at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico and loved going to see Cirque de Soleil. He attended mass with his family every Sunday.

Down Syndrome limited Jeffrey in some ways but throughout his life he was a happy person who greeted all with a smile. At age 4, he was among the first students to enroll at the newly formed Notre Dame School of Dallas. For seventeen years he looked forward every day to the warm and loving care given to the students. He graduated from the vocational training program at Notre Dame and eventually became a volunteer kitchen helper at the school. Under the guidance of his favorite teachers, Margarita Gonzalez and Monica Ramirez, he contributed to the flow of kitchen duties and modeled accomplishment for the other students. He pursued new tasks at a pace consistent with his abilities. Once he learned a task, he did it without further prompting. It was an example for us to observe and apply.

About five years ago, he announced his preference for staying at home, with his favorite TV shows (Bewitched and I Dream of Jeannie) and his big dog. He was blessed with an outstanding team of loving caregivers for whom the family will be forever grateful. Georgina Betz assisted him with patience and good humor during the weekdays in close coordination with the family housekeeper, Emily Akwei. Other valued helpers included Sonia, Victoria, Linda, and Randy.

Jeff was preceded in death by his greatest champion, his mother Mary Claire Phipps. He is survived by his dedicated and loving father, Charles Phipps; by his brother Christopher Phipps and his wife Alison Black; and by his sister, Ann Phipps and her husband Michael Cannatti.

A funeral mass will be offered at St. Rita’s Catholic Church on Friday at 1 with a reception following. Interment will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Notre Dame School of Dallas, 2018 Allen Street, Dallas, TX 75204.