Annette spent her youth growing up in Harrison, where her father was the manager of a Coca Cola plant. In college she attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville where she was a member of Chi Omega Fraternity. In 1955 Annette joined the first class of the University of Arkansas School of Nursing where she graduated with honors. While a nursing student, she met an undergraduate medical student named Pat Phillips. Pat first saw Annette standing at the top of the stairs at the old medical school. He fell in love with her at first sight. The two dated for the next couple of years.
In June of 1957 Annette and Pat both graduated from their respective schools and married that very same month. They eventually settled and raised a family in Fort Smith, AR. They were blessed with three children, eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren and a fourth great grandson on the way. They were also blessed with many wonderful friends. Annette is survived by her husband of 63 years, Dr. Pat Phillips; children, Kevin Phillips (Sumer), Sarajane Robertson (Dennis), Patti Ann Aclin (Greg); grandchildren, Chase Phillips, Kara Phillips, Deni Pitonyak (Dustin), David Robertson, Randle Robertson, Katherine Aclin, Sarah Aclin, William Aclin; great-grandchildren, Annie Jane Pitonyak, Parker Robertson, John David Robertson, Lucas Pitonyak; sister, Barna Jane Graves; sister-in-law, Jo Gwen Phillips; and many nieces and nephews.
Viewing will be 10 AM Wednesday, until 12 PM Thursday at Edwards Funeral Home. The graveside service will be held Thursday 1:00 pm July 2, 2020 at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to The American Heart Association would be appreciated.
Online condolences may be sent to www.edwardsfuneralhome.com
