Gladys Gunter Phillips

Gladys Gunter Phillips, lovingly known by many names including “Little Fat Squaw,” “Momma,” “Nanny,” “GanGan,” “Littles,” and even the “Energizer Bunny,” entered into eternal rest peacefully on Sunday, December 1, 2024, in Lexington County, South Carolina. She was 99 years old.

Born on May 30, 1925, in the Steadman Community of Lexington County, Gladys was one of 12 children born to the late John Wesley and Corrie Lewis Gunter. Her life was a testament to service, faith, and love for family and friends.

A lifelong member of Red Bank United Methodist Church, Gladys was its oldest member, demonstrating her steadfast devotion to her faith community. She loved “her church” including supporting the children’s church and choir. Whether participating in church activities, supporting loved ones, or joining her husband Leroy in his long-range trucking business—earning her own license to drive alongside him—Gladys lived with purpose and energy.

Gladys began her career in service jobs, including working at Villa Tronco, where she met her husband, Leroy. She also worked in manufacturing and service jobs at Horseman Doll, Lexington Sportswear, Hite’s Restaurant and the Chicken Shack. Together, in retirement, they drove trucks cross-country, and later she became a crossing guard at Red Bank Elementary. She rounded out her career as a dedicated housekeeper at Sojourner's Inn, working into her late 80s, reflecting her tireless work ethic and commitment to serving others.

Her family recalls her boundless spirit and adventurous nature. She encouraged generations of grandchildren and great-grandchildren that family was everything, and eagerly embraced every chance for adventure whether it was taking cross country trips to visit family in Spokane, Washington or her cherished Harley motorcycle rides as part of her birthday celebrations at “The Compound.”

Gladys was a woman of simple pleasures. Her favorite indulgence was a cold PBR and a hotdog topped with chili, something she often enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations. She was known for playfully claiming she was saving a "sweet treat" to enjoy with her morning coffee, a delightful excuse for her love of dessert. Every Christmas, she filled her kitchen with the aroma of her holiday staples: friendship cake, bourbon balls, homemade noodles, and her daily six perfect biscuits. She was hardly ever seen without a book in hand.

Gladys earned the nickname "Energizer Bunny" for her boundless energy and unstoppable spirit. Whether she was logging countless miles on her stationary bike, "killing" the lawnmower by tackling yard work in the heat of the day, canning fresh vegetables, or staying busy with her diligent housekeeping, she was always on the move. Her vitality and determination inspired everyone around her, embodying the phrase "she just kept going."

Gladys was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Phillips; her daughter, Dell (Nathaniel) Collins; one grandchild; and two great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Paula (Garry) Ash and Jay (Michele) Phillips; her legacy includes 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry her love and lessons forward.

Her family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate her incredible life on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. for visitation and celebration of life at 11:00 a.m. at Red Bank United Methodist Church. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Mission Lexington at 216 Harmon Street, Lexington, SC 29072, continuing Gladys’ spirit of service and care for her community.

Gladys Phillips leaves behind a legacy of faith, determination, and love that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her. She is deeply missed but fondly remembered for her laughter, resilience, and unwavering commitment to those she loved.