

Eva “Ruth” Phillips entered into eternal rest on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the age of 82. A faithful servant of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Ruth lived a life devoted to faith, family, and service. She was the beloved mother of Freddie Joseph Duplessis, Jr. (Tammy) and Joel Gonzales (Andrea); cherished grandmother (“Mamare”) of Charlette Chaney (“Chaney”), Tara Duplessis (Dwight), Matt Duplessis (Sara), Tristian LaFrance, and Aiden Gonzales; proud great-grandmother of Jasmine Chaney, Madison Sarrio, Gabriella Sarrio (Johnny), Tonya Chaney, Cecilia Knight (Tanner), Lydia Chaney, Laela Duplessis, Rylon Chaney, Tate Segura, Thomas Segura, Jersi Duplessis, Demi Duplessis, Todd Sylve, Jr., Emma Segura, Huntyr Duplessis, and Melyn Ruth Chaney; and devoted great-great-grandmother of Stormyi, Jiana, Phill III, Johnny, Jr., and Isaiah. Ruth was the sister of Pauline “Alice” Sylve (the late Chimas) and was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Pauline Henry Barthelemy, as well as her siblings Morris Barthelemy, Audrey Wilson (the late Alward), and Anthony Barthelemy (Amanda). She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, adopted family, relatives, and friends—each of whom she loved as her own.
A native and lifelong resident of Port Sulphur, Ruth treasured her years on Grand Bayou. She dedicated her life to serving others—working as a waitress, housekeeper, caretaker, and most importantly, as a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. She was a Bible scholar who believed deeply in continual spiritual growth. She earned her associate degree in ministry and joyfully shared her knowledge and faith with others. Over the years, she served as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, Youth Group leader, and Ladies Fellowship leader—touching countless lives through her wisdom, dedication, and guidance. Ruth was a skilled cook who delighted in preparing meals that brought people together. She was extremely proud of her family recipes and enjoyed sharing her knowledge with her loved ones. Outside of cooking, she found joy in collecting plants and watching them grow—a reflection of her nurturing spirit she carried into every part of her life. Her legacy of faith and unconditional love will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.
As a founding member of River of Life Ministries, Ruth’s faith was her foundation. She continued to grow in her relationship with Christ, answering His call by becoming an ordained minister at the age of 81. Ruth was a true prayer warrior who lifted others up daily—family, friends, and even strangers. She shared the gospel whenever she had the opportunity and will forever be remembered as a mighty woman of God whose love and faith touched countless lives.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation on Saturday, October 25, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM at River of Life Ministries, located at 25640 LA-23, Port Sulphur. A Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 AM. After the service, all are welcome to join the family for a memorial tree planting and repass as we continue to honor and celebrate Ruth’s life together.
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