Martha “Marty” Ellen Darmody Phillips was born in Memphis, TN. on October 31, 1944. She passed away after a brief illness on February 23, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Monroe, LA at the age of 77. Born with Cerebral Palsy, the young Marty was the center of attention with her family, especially her cousins. She was a favorite at gatherings with her humor and endless knowledge of family. Mert, as she was called by most, was truly one of a kind. She loved to write and keep all news-worthy happenings in journals and scrap books, gaining the nickname of NosyMert. Her razor-sharp memory also entitled her the position of family historian. She was a huge sports fan, a cheerleader for her brothers, nieces and nephews and all the grandchildren.
Marty received her high school diploma through the Caddo School for Exceptional Students at Byrd High School in Shreveport where she initially began to hone in on her writing skills. She was a devoted Catholic and often volunteered to help with church mailers and other communication tasks from her home.
Preceded in death by her parents, Richard Darmody, Jr., Jack Phillips and Elsie Darmody Phillips. She is survived by her brothers, Rick Phillips (Celeste), Mike Phillips (Trish) and her ‘babies’, Benny and Baxter.
Marty’s motto from an early age was “do not dwell on my handicap, I am just a child of God who has limitations”. And her inspiration continues to live in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to spend time with her. Her purpose on this earth was surely fulfilled.
Visitation on Monday, February 28th will be at 9:00 a.m. at St. Jude Catholic Church, 4700 Palmetto Rd., Benton, LA, followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be at Hill Crest Memorial Park 601 Hwy 80 East, Haughton, LA.
Pallbearers will be Sean Phillips, Michael Phillips, Chris Phillips, John Brodnax , and RJ Lavan.
The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers over the years and to the nurses and staff at Avalon Nursing Home in Monroe.
