Virginia Mary Phillips

Virginia was born in Lane, Kansas on May 8, 1926, to Velda and Cecil Gerth and welcomed by older sister Bernice. She lived on the family farm in Lane until the unexpected death of her father when she was 10. The family then moved to Ottawa, Kansas where she grew up, went to school and worked to help support her family.

Virginia married her childhood sweetheart, Leslie Phillips, in May of 1946 in a double wedding ceremony with her sister, Bernice and brother-in-law, Charles (Dick) Patterson. These fab four had many grand adventures throughout their lives.

Virginia and Leslie moved to Greeley, Colorado where Leslie worked on his schooling and Virginia worked and made a home in a very tiny basement apartment with a coal stove. Many fun tales were told of their time in Greeley. This time was cut short by the Korean War and a pregnant Virginia going back to be with family in Kansas while Leslie was called back into service. Virginia gave birth to son, Mark in 1952.

The war ended and Virginia and family moved to La Mesa, California. This area of southern California would become home for many years. Daughter Debra was welcomed there. Virginia was very active in her church often helping other families and providing for and encouraging others. She served on the local election board, working all elections, counting ballots, and training others. Virginia was also very active in PTA serving as an officer, organizing and helping with fundraisers.

Always the wonderful hostess, Virginia welcomed people into her home. Many times, mere acquaintances were at a family dinner as they needed a warm and comforting welcome and meal. Virginia was always encouraging to others and went out of her way to lift them up with kindness and caring.

Upon retiring in Arizona Virginia was still active in her church and community. She sang in the choir at Freedom Plaza and was on multiple committees always wanting see improvements around her.

Virginia is survived by son, Mark (Jacqueline) Phillips, daughter, Debra (Steven) Rowley, grandchildren: Genny (Cameron Day) Rowley, Lesley (Scott) Slaughter, Ian Phillips and step granddaughter Jennifer Teague. Great grandchildren, Simon Slaughter, Raleigh Slaughter, Claire Day- Rowley and soon to be born Cora Day-Rowley. Virginia also leaves behind many loving nephews, a niece, grandnephews and grandnieces. She is preceded in death by her loving husband Leslie, parents, Velda and Cecil Gerth, sister, Bernice and great-grandson Samuel Day-Rowley.

Virginia will be remembered as a strong woman of faith who welcomed all with open arms. Always making friends wherever she went and caring for the welfare of others.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunlandmemorial.com for the Phillips family.