Helen Marie Phillips, 88, of Fort Smith, AR passed away peacefully at her home on January 21, 2020. She was born April 28, 1931 in Jenny Lind, AR to George and Jenna Mae Ross. She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Jane McGowan; three siblings, Alice Pat Been, Bobby Ross and Tommy Ross.
She graduated from Greenwood High School in 1949. Helen married Gerald Phillips on December 23, 1950. They recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. She enjoyed working as a hair stylist at the Manor Retirement Home, but spent most of her life as a dedicated mother to her daughters, Jane and Joy. Helen was a Church of Christ member for over seventy years.
Helen touched the hearts of many friends and family throughout her life with her sweet handwritten notes. Survivors include her loving husband, Gerald Phillips; daughter, Joy Beckett and husband Allen of Kure Beach, NC; one sister, Linda Glass of Fort Smith; five grandchildren, Audrey of NC, Austin of TX, Tyler of Greenwood, Evan of Lavaca and Morgan of Charleston; two great grandchildren, Luke of NC, and Ella Jane of Charleston.
Graveside service will be 10:00 AM, Friday, January 24, 2020 at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith. Services are entrusted to Edwards Funeral Home.
Helen’s family will always be grateful to Pink Bud Nursing Home and Heart of Hospice for their loving care. Memorials may be made to either Pink Bud or Heart of Hospice.
