Ruby Phillips

Ruby Roachell Phillips, age 89, so deeply loved by her family and friends, left this earthly life to meet her Lord and Savior on Thursday Nov. 12, 2015 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Ruby was born on Oct. 17, 1926, in Brighton, TN, to John M. and Tiny Lee Roachell. She was a basketball standout in high school and was chosen Miss Brighton her senior year. On November 8, 1947, she married the love of her life, Marion Houston Phillips, and lived famously together in Memphis for 44 years, until his death in 1992. During those happy years together they raised two children, son, G. Rockett, and daughter, Marcelle.

Ruby worked as a Veteran’s Benefits Counselor for Memphis VA Medical Center for over 25 years, before retiring. She was a member of Colonial Baptist Church for 50 years, where she was actively involved with Women’s Missionary Union and serving as Sunday School class president and leader. When she relocated to Tulsa, OK, nine years ago, she continued her church service at First Baptist Jenks. She touched the lives of many people in numerous places and in various roles. She had a gift for gracious hospitality and was a true friend to all who knew her.

Ruby is survived by her son G. Rockett Phillips of Nashville, TN; her daughter, Marcelle Phillips Cowell (Randy) of Tulsa, OK; her grandchildren Julie Cowell Bargas (Michael) of Edmond, OK, and Justin Cowell (Breanne) of Owasso, OK; and three great-grandchildren, Kellen Bargas, Avery Bargas, and Lylah Cowell. She also leaves a host of loving nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings: Ethel Lee “Bo” Roachell, Clara Mae Blalack, Johnny Alexander Roachell, Bennie Robert Roachell, Willie B. Roachell, and Louise Roachell Spencer.

Visitation for friends and family will be at Memphis Funeral Home, Poplar Chapel, Friday, November 20, from 5-8 p.m. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, November 21, with burial to follow at Morrison Cemetery, Brighton, TN.