Laran Lee Phillips

Laran Lee Phillips, 68, of Norfolk, Nebraska, entered eternal rest on June 16, 2025, in Omaha. Born on November 4, 1956, in Lincoln to Donna Earnest and Lawrence Vought. Laran's life was a testament to resilience, love, and selflessness. Known for her true heart of gold, Laran's family fondly remembers her as someone with an unmatched capacity for love, thoughtfulness, and sincerity.

Overcoming the challenges brought about by cerebral palsy, Laran embraced life with remarkable courage. From ages 8 to 16, she spent significant time at Shriners Hospital, undergoing 16 surgeries. Despite these early challenges, her spirit remained vibrant, generous, and filled with compassion toward everyone around her. Laran lived life on her terms, determined to be defined by her dreams and passions rather than her limitations.

Laran graduated from Omaha South High School and thereafter met and married her beloved husband, Jeffrey Wayne Phillips, a devoted member of the United States Air Force. Together, they built a loving home, raising two cherished children, Courtney Phillips and Jeffrey J. Phillips. Laran was immensely proud of her family and lovingly embraced her role as grandma to her adored grandson, Caleb, her greatest joy.

Filling her days with warmth, Laran enjoyed being a homemaker and an in-home babysitter. Her love for animals, daytime soap operas, and "Wheel of Fortune" added simple joys to her vibrant life, while her passion for family gatherings brewed unforgettable moments of laughter and love.

She is survived by her daughter Courtney Phillips, son Jeffrey J. Phillips, grandson Caleb, sisters Kim Beranek, Becky Ellefson, Cindy Kiper, Linda Potter, and Patty Winther. Laran is preceded in death by her husband Jeffrey Wayne Phillips, parents Donna Earnest and Lawrence Vought, brother Curtis Vought, and sisters Judy Ferzley and Lauralee Earleywine.

A memorial service celebrating Laran’s life will be held at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m., followed by a private graveside service at Omaha National Cemetery on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Any donations will be made in Laran’s name to Shriners Hospital, an institution she held dear throughout her life.

Rest peacefully, dear Laran, and may your kindness and love continue to inspire us all.