Barbara` A. Phillips

Obituary

Celebrating Barbara Ann Phillips

“You can love someone so much. But you can never love someone as much as you miss them.”

- John Green

Barbara Ann Jackson was born on September 16, 1942, in Philadelphia, PA  to the late Esther Jackson. Barbara lived and was educated in both Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

Barbara was an only child and was surrounded by her beloved grandparents, her many uncles, aunts and cousins. She had an especially close relationship with Aunt Lola, who preceded her in death.  Barbara worked from a young age in a host of jobs including waitressing.  It was as a waitress that she met Whittington Phillips Jr. They fell in love and were married on December 6, 1963 and enjoyed 15 years of marriage before his death in 1977.   Their two daughters, Deborah Ann and Diane were born from this union.  Barbara was devoted to her children and even though it was often a struggle, she managed to provide everything that they needed.  Her love for Debbie and Diane was apparent to all who knew them.  Education was key to Barbara and she worked to ensure that her children did well in school and earned secondary degrees.  That tradition has continued with her grandchildren- Journei and Jarach. 

Barbara worked in the Philadelphia School system for over 30 years. In her last position as a Lead Non Teaching Associate she supervised a staff of 2 NTAs and was responsible for ensuring that the students and teachers had the supplies and support they needed.  Past colleagues and students still remember “Mrs. Phillips” fondly and the genuine care and concern she had for them.  They also remember how professional and dedicated she was.  She truly was the source of answers and so very good at ensuring that tasks were executed and completed smoothly. In 2008, Barbara retired from Central East Middle School.

Barbara lived on the 8400 block of Provident Road for over 50 years.  During that time she earned the respect and love of generations of neighbors. Barbara was known to say, “I like kids and dogs”.  She watched out for children in the neighborhood up until the time she departed this life.  She had several dogs in her lifetime including- Dottie, Pooh, Rusty, Tina and finally Sophia.  One of her pleasures was sitting on the patio and talking to neighbors.  She took great pride in the flowers she planted every year and her lawn.  Just a few weeks ago she was sitting on the patio for most of the day laughing and talking with neighbors.   “Ms. Barbara” was known to all and no one hesitated to help her with packages or provide any assistance.  Several neighbors said it was a “privilege” to know her.  She was also be remembered for her sense of humor and quick wit.

On September 23, 2022 Barbara returned home to her Father’s house.  She will live in the hearts of her daughters Deborah and Diane Cox,  son-in-law Raydell Cox Jr., grandchildren Journei Eden  and Jarach Micajah, cousins and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband Whittington Phillips, Jr., her mother, Esther Jackson and her grandson, Jaden Xavier Cox.  There are many more relatives, friends and neighbors who are also left to grieve her passing. She leaves behind her fur baby, Sophia.

Submitted With Love,

The Family   

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