Carol Eve Phillips

Carol Eve Phillips, 77, of Brentwood, CA, peacefully passed away on February 13, 2025, after complications from multiple strokes.

Born on March 16, 1947, in Oakland, CA, Carol was the second oldest of six siblings, cherished daughter of Vincent Barba and Catherine LoVecchio Kane and was devotedly raised by her stepfather, Thomas Kane Sr. She spent her early years in Alameda and Hayward, where she attended Mt. Eden High School. Carol's path in life led her to West Valley College, where she earned a degree in Medical Assisting-a testament to her nurturing spirit and desire to care for others.

In 1970, Carol married Thomas Phillips, and together they built a loving home in San Ramon, where they raised two children, Monica and Daniel. Though her marriage to Thomas ended after 24 years, Carol remained a dedicated and loving mother, always there for her children, and later, her grandchildren.

Carol's career was a reflection of her compassionate nature. She spent many years working as a Medical Assistant in San Ramon before transitioning to the insurance industry, where she eventually retired in 2009. But even after retirement, Carol's zest for life never waned. She pursued her lifelong dream of attending culinary school, earning her Culinary Arts degree from Diablo Valley College. She also took joy in working at Target, where she brightened the days of everyone she encountered.

In 2018, Carol moved to Brentwood and quickly found her place in the welcoming Summerset community. There, she thrived, forming deep connections and becoming an active member of several cherished groups. As a devoted participant in the Summerset Singers, she shared her love of music and camaraderie. Carol also found joy in the book club, where she relished in the company of fellow readers. Perhaps most notably, she was a dedicated member of the Kare Bears, a group committed to supporting the needs of everyone in the neighborhood. Through her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others, Carol made a lasting impact and was truly loved by all who knew her.

Above all, Carol was a woman of faith. A devoted Christian, she lived her life with a heart full of love for God and those around her. She was deeply involved in her church, sharing her voice with the Summerset Singers, and bringing joy to all through her performances. Carol's love for life extended to many other passions-travel, baking, and her beloved dogs. But most of all, she will be remembered for the unwavering kindness, warmth, and generosity she brought into every life she touched.

Carol leaves behind her two children, Monica Liu (and husband Hsien), Daniel Phillips (and wife Katie), and her beloved grandchildren, Brandon, Natalie, and Samuel. She is also survived by her five siblings-Deana, Cynthia, Marsha, Thomas, and Angela-all of whom she held dear to her heart.

Carol's family requests that she be remembered not by the sorrow of her passing, but by the light, love, and joy she brought to everyone she met. She was a woman whose heart knew no bounds, whose life was a beautiful testament to faith, family, and the love that makes life worth living.

A celebration of her life will be held on April 5, 2025 at the Summerset Clubhouse in Brentwood. While flowers and memorial gifts are welcome, Carol would have preferred that you share in the joy of her memory, as she always did.