Marie Christina Phillips
Oct. 22, 1947 – Nov. 14, 2021
AUBURN - Marie Christina Phillips, 74, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 14, 2021. Marie was born in Auburn, NY to the late Dominic and Josephine (Palumbo) Raymond.
After graduating from West High School, Marie moved to New York to attend Pace University where she earned her Master of Education and went on to teach kindergarten/early childhood classes in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Elizabeth, NJ, and finally in her hometown, Auburn, during which she changed the lives of countless students through her strong advocacy for childhood reading, exploration, and hands-on play.
The love of her life, Charles "Butch" Phillips, of Rahway, NJ, who remained with her all throughout, survives her. They had just warmly celebrated 50 years of marriage in October of this year.
Marie is well known for having touched the lives of nearly every person she encountered with her selflessness, humor, and paramount generosity.
In addition to her husband, Marie is survived by her daughters: Jessica (David) Netti, of Auburn, NY, and Nina (Benjamin) Clarke, of Rochester, NY; her beloved grandchildren: Dominic Mosley, Christian Clarke, and Piper Clarke, with whom she was exceptionally close. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy (Tim) Hillman; her brothers: Joseph (Mary) Raymond, James Raymond, and John Raymond; her nephew, Nicholas Raymond; her nieces: Michelle Hillman, Donna Ryan, Jennifer Ryan, and Susie Ryan. Mary Ann Mosca, who has shared an inseparable bond with Marie since middle school, survives her, as well. There are also many cherished nieces, nephews; and cousins scattered from Auburn to New Jersey, Minnesota, Nevada, and Florida.
Marie is predeceased by her nephew, Joseph Raymond, of Auburn.
The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the staff of Matthew House, who provided Marie the comfort and dignity that she deserved after a tenacious fight with cancer.
Calling hours will take place on Sunday, November 21, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at White Chapel Funeral Home, Inc., 197 South Street, Auburn, NY.
A memorial service will take place on Monday, November 22, 2021, at 10:00 AM at the same location.
Donations in Marie's memory may be made to the Matthew House, 43 Metcalf Drive, Auburn, NY. Condolences may also be offered to the family at www.whitechapelfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by White Chapel Funeral Home - Auburn.
Debbie Stott Moody
June 7, 2023
Wishing you all joyful memories! "Mrs. Phillips " was my firstborn's first teacher and we loved her! I'm so sorry to only be learning of her passing now. She will forever be in our hearts! Much love,
Debbie and Mykala Moody
Sarah Genecco
November 25, 2021
I am very sorry to hear of Marie´s passing. She was a very good friend of my mothers, Francine Ruschak Genecco. I have many fond memories of getting together in Auburn. I am deeply sorry for your families loss and pray for your comfort in peace during this difficult time. Marie was a wonderful person who´s smile was contagious and had a heart of gold.
Ellen Watson/ Silvano Tanganelli
November 24, 2021
To Charlie, Jessica and Nina our deepest condolences. May the God of all flesh bring strenght and comfort at this most difficult time.
Silvano
November 24, 2021
I am so saddend
LISA SLOAN
November 21, 2021
Mrs. Phillips was my daughter´s teacher 25 years ago. She was the Gold Standard of teachers. She made every child feel important and capable and she truly was a gift to our community and to our children. Please accept my deepest condolences.
the Hillman Family
November 20, 2021
We will miss you so much!!! Love always!
Cindy&Brian DAngelo
November 20, 2021
To Marie´s family so sorry to hear of her passing.She was Brian´s kindergarten teacher,she was a awesome teacher & beautiful person, she will be sadly missed by so many people! Our prayers are with you & your family. RIP
Carol Proscia
November 20, 2021
Butch, Jess, and Nina
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marie was a wonderful and caring person.
We were colleagues at Herman Ave.
She was an inspiration to all who worked with her. She cared for her students and they benefited from her expertise and kindness. She will be missed.
CARL PETROSINO
November 20, 2021
Butch and kids,
When I think of Marie, I always see her smiling. A great
person, teacher, Granma and friend. This is a classic "only the good die young."
Love Carlooch
Melissa and Abe Eberhardt
November 19, 2021
Dear Butch, Jessica, Nancy and the Phillips family. Our deepest condolences for your loss.
Melissa and Abe Eberhardt
Robert Elser
November 19, 2021
Butch, Jessica, Dominic, and all of the Phillips family,
Marie was an amazing loving person and educator. She took great care of Spencer when she taught him at Herman!
Our family always enjoyed seeing her when we would cross paths.
Sincere sympathies to all of you.
Robert, Charlie, and Spencer Elser
Toni Caci-Considine
November 19, 2021
I am sorry to learn about Marie's passing. She is beautiful! Many blessings & prayers for you, Nancy, and family, during this time of grieving. Love to all.
shirley cuddeback
November 18, 2021
Nancy I remember with such happiness all the fun times as neighbors on Delevan Street. Marie was always so kind and sweet. There is no doubt she is smiling down at all her family as an angel in heaven would. God bless you and all your family.
sandy hopkins
November 18, 2021
Marie was a caring friend from High School. Heaven just received a new and precious ANGEL WILL BE MISSED Sincerely. Sandy
Annette Murphy
November 18, 2021
Jessica an David my deepest condolences to your family on the loss of your Mother. May she Rest In Peace.
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