Mrs. Evelyn Whitener Phillips

Evelyn’s story began as she grew up in the Propst Crossroads area in Catawba County. She was a 1948 graduate from Blackburn High School. She worked in the hosiery industry for most of her life and cherished the many friendships she made. In addition to working, she raised five children (Tony, Teresa, Mike, Freddie & Kathy). She was a devoted Christian and took her children to church every Sunday. As a member of Oxford Baptist Church, she held many duties. One of her favorites was working in the nursery as she loved to tend to the children. She loved to watch them develop and grow up. Evelyn was given the honor of Mother of the Year at Oxford Baptist in 2005.

Her life outside of church was rich with the love of her family. There were many family gatherings over the different holidays. Mother’s Day was a special time when the children could focus on her as being the best mom. While a great cook, she loved trying out new recipes. She inherited the green thumb from her mother and could get plants to thrive. She loved flowers and always loved to work outside with them.

Preceded in death are her parents: Lester and Kathryn Whitener; spouse: Fred Phillips; brothers: Robert, Larry and Wayne; sons: Michael Poteat, Tony Poteat and son-in-law Dick Williams. She is survived by daughter, Teresa Williams; daughter Kathy Phillips (Michael); son Freddie Phillips (Mandy), daughters-in-law Tina Poteat and Gail Poteat. She also has 9 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to Conover Nursing & Rehabilitation Center for the love and care of our mother.

"They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.”

Isaiah 40:31

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 2- 3pm at Oxford Baptist Church.

Funeral Service will be held at 3:15pm Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Oxford Baptist Church with Pastor Joel Frye officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Amorem Hospice and Palliative Care and Oxford Baptist Church.