Bertha Louise Phillips

Bertha Louise Guesnard Phillips, a lifelong resident of Mobile and a woman of profound quiet strength, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026. Born on April 23, 1938, Bertha was a true daughter of Mobile, raised on Palmetto Street in the heart of downtown by her mother, Marie Guesnard, and her grandparents.

On February 8, 1959, Bertha married the love of her life, Lee Phillips. Together, they built a life defined by devotion, recently celebrating a remarkable 67th wedding anniversary—a testament to a partnership built on faith and enduring love.

Bertha’s life was one of service and simple joys. In her younger years, she worked at Lily’s Fish House downtown, and later in life, she found great fulfillment in cleaning homes. She didn't just tidy rooms; she took genuine pride in creating a sense of peace and order for those she cared for.

Bertha’s heart belonged to Jesus, and her life was a living reflection of His love and grace. As a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, she found great joy in her faith community. She was a constant, helping hand within the church, volunteering her time with the "Young at Heart" group and famously running the bottle booth at the annual Lawn Party. Her faith wasn't just something she practiced; it was the foundation of who she was.

At home, that same love was felt through her cooking. No Sunday dinner was complete without her famous "cat head" biscuits, shared around a table filled with the family she adored. When she wasn't in the kitchen or at the church, Bertha could be found among her flowers. She had a gift for nurturing plants, reflecting the same patience and care she gave to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Bertha is survived by her devoted husband, Lee Phillips; her children, Lee Phillips Jr. (Cristi), Sandy Phillips (Roger), and Danny Phillips (Nicole); and her cherished grandchildren, Andrew, Zachary, Brandon, Caitlin, Ava, and Rae. She is also survived by her beloved great-grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, her dear cousins, and a host of extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marie Guesnard, and her brothers, Robert Guesnard Jr. and Edward Guesnard. Her legacy of faith, hard work, and quiet strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Friday, February 27, 2026

Visitation: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Interment: Burial to follow at the cemetery.

Repass: A reception will be held immediately following the burial at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall.