I'd like to thank Nana for all of the wonderful things she did to improve the world around her and all of the energy she devoted to pursuing a more just and kind future than the world in which she grew up. Nana was a dreamer and an idealist who wanted everyone to achieve their fullest potential, and she was willing to make tremendous personal sacrifices to do so. She was always available when her family needed her, and being of service to others was one of her greatest sources of joy. Whether she was volunteering with the church to help the needy, or taking on extra responsibilities looking after my sister and I while my mother was returning to school to earn her dental hygiene degree after my parents' divorce, Nana would always arrive on time and with a smile on her face, eager to spread the happiness that Jesus' message brought to her. 
Nana will always have my admiration for the consistent pattern of selflessness and compassion she showed us. If she could conceive of any way that she could contribute to the wellbeing of the people she cared about, Nana always generously offered to be of assistance. She wanted the best for everyone and didn't care what personal cost it would come at to her. 
Some of the most treasured experiences from my younger life were the trips to Ireland that Nana took us on. It was very important to her that the family develop an understanding and appreciation for the cultural roots she so strongly identified with and enjoyed as a child; To share the magical landscapes and booming personalities described in Irish pub songs she loved so much in her childhood. The last time I saw her, shortly after her accident in January, she could still sing along with to these songs without missing a beat. 
The final years of Nana's life were difficult for the people closest to her, as we saw her lively spirit and relentless sense of self sufficiency fall victim to the terrors of her alzheimer's, but it gave us the chance to practice the lessons she taught the world through her actions. After having received the benefits of her love and affection for so many years, she finally needed help from the family to continue living life on her own terms. We were happy to have an opportunity to give something back to her-- and in a good Irish fashion, our family became closer as a result of the hardships that we endured together. 
I am very sad to be here today to close the final chapter of Nana's time in this world with us, but I know that she would only want to see smiles. Her faith implored her to always trust in God and look for the bright side of the situation. She had a gift in her ability to reframe negative situations and appreciate the positives, and that's a quality of hers which I believe to be profoundly important in living a happy and fulfilling life.
Nana's life is defined by her gratitude and compassion. She was a devout servant to the Church and her Christian values until the end. Going forward, I'll always look to the example she set for us as a role model for living a meaningful life. She was the closest thing to a saint that I can ever hope to witness, and I'm happy to know that she's finally in heaven, free from pain and empowered by her free spirit to live eternally in the kingdom of God.

My grandma was the most selfless and graceful woman I have even known. Nana always led by example and because of her, I understand that it is not what others can do for you, but what you can do for others that truly matters. Nana also taught me the importance of enjoying life and taking advantage of everything life has to offer. I am a better person because of my grandma and I am so thankful that I had her influence for as long as I did. I miss her deeply but find comfort when I think of her in heaven finally reunited with my grandpa.

It's Time to Say Goodbye
To the mom I loved so well
To her spirit shining bright
To the beauty of her soul
To the abundance of her life 
To her naughty nana ways
To the sparkle in her gaze
She nurtured me with love
She taught me to forgive
She embraced gratefulness 
She SHOWED me how to live
With all that I am and
With all I hope to be
I pray to the lord 
to be as good a mom as she

I love you Mom. I'm going to miss you so much!

Kay Phillips will be missed. Her spirit and energy lit up the roomand by the stories people tell, that was true her whole life. I only knew her through Alexis for a few years but I will always remember that sparkle and the laugh. She was also a woman of deep faith. That sort of religious commitment is not very popular these days but it practically defined her. She was devoted to her church and to her family. She was not afraid to speak her mind or take a stand.

I was shocked and sad to hear of Kay's death.  She was a grand neighbor on Castlewood Drive in Glenwood and always kind to each member of the Welch Family though we were out touch after she moved.  We will all remember her love of all things Irish . I will pray for her and not forget her.  We all send our love and sympathy to her family, Linda, Deborah and Gary.

I was so sorry and shocked to learn of Kay's death.  She was a grand neighbor on Castlewood Dr. in Glenwood, always kind to each person in the Welch family; we all loved her though out of touch since she moved away  I wil pray for her and not forget her or her children, Linda Deborah and Gary.  We all send our sympathy and love to each of you.

I dearly loved you, Kay.  I shall always remember our crazy fun times, whether it was at the Renaissance Faire on horseback, tearing down part of my kitchen ceiling or dying my hair.
With love, Judy Mackintosh Vandenberg

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Catherine Julia Phillips

24 septembre 1934 – 5 février 2018

Becker Funeral Home

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