Gertrude Bonner (Trudy) Phillips

Trudy was born in Paducah, Kentucky on November 13, 1929, where she lived with her family until they moved to Jackson, Tennessee her senior year of high school. She graduated from Jackson High School in 1949 and attended Union University in Jackson for two years.

In 1953, Trudy married Henry Dawson Phillips (d., December, 23, 2019) on January 9, 1953. They were married 66 years.

In 1965, Trudy and her family moved to Linden, Tennessee when Henry became District Manager of Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative. For many years she and her family lived in Linden where she was very active in Linden First United Methodist Church and in the community. She was well known in Perry County by her many friends with whom she continued strong ties after she and Henry moved to Trenton, Tennessee to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

For many years, Trudy served as a teacher’s aide in Linden Grade School. She loved to help children with their reading. Years later, she often would have adults she had tutored introduce their children to her, saying: “This is Miss Trudy. She taught me to read.” Nothing brought her more joy.

Trudy is survived by her sister, Betty, son Edward (Sara), son John (Leda), son Charles (Robin), eleven grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to First United Methodist Church, Linden, or Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church, Humboldt.

The family will receive friends and loved ones on Sunday afternoon, November 28, 2021 from 2-4 p.m. at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons.

The funeral service will be conducted on Monday, November 29, 2021 at 10 a.m. from Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church in Humboldt with Rev. Sara Webb Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in Ebenezer Cemetery near Malesus.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GeorgeASmithandSons.com for the Phillips family.