Alice Phelps

In Loving Memory of Alice Cooke Ryan Phelps August 11, 1919 – October 24, 2025
At just 4 feet 10 inches tall, Alice Cooke Ryan Phelps was a force to be reckoned with. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, and affectionately known as Lal, Mum, Grandmother, or simply Granny, Alice passed away peacefully at the remarkable age of 106.
Over more than a century of life, Alice bore witness to history-living through World War II and countless global changes. Through it all, she persevered with grit, determination, and a touch of humor. A sticker she proudly displayed summed it up best: "Stay Calm and Carry On."
A Life of Bold Choices and Quiet Strength
Alice married Gordon Ryan at 17, and welcomed three children: Gerald, Gordon, and May. When Gordon entered college, Alice made a bold, life-changing decision to move the family to the United States.
In Illinois, she worked full-time at Hostess Bakery in Schiller Park, gaining experience across product lines, actively participating in the union, and eventually retiring with a well-earned pension.
Her Spirit and Stubborn Grace
Whether it was her good genes, her belief in a balanced diet and exercise, or sheer Scottish stubbornness, Alice remained fiercely independent living with the company of her beloved dog Missy. Her elixir was hot water and lemon juice in the morning, and walking Missy in the park regardless of the weather. She loved 'Glasgow days' and had her humidifier running 24 hours a day, even if there was ice forming on the inside of the windows.
Though she was self-conscious about her hands, believing them not dainty enough, those same hands were among the strongest and kindest. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, they were comforting and healing-administering warm olive oil and mustard rubdowns for coughs or gently wiping away tears.
Her Passions and Principles
Alice lived by the motto: "Life-it isn't a destination, it's a journey."
She loved reading before bed, knitting, traveling, and savoring a good meal. Sundays were reserved for reading the Chicago Tribune cover to cover, and she looked forward to the weekly edition of her 'junky paper', the National Enquirer. She believed in the restorative power of sleep-and soup was her love language.
Though she never had a formal education, Alice held a deep respect for learning, adventure, and discovery. She delighted in trying new things-except perhaps trips to the mall with her granddaughters through the perfume aisles, which she protested with humorous flair.
Endlessly Curious, Deeply Loving
Alice was never one to shy away from a good laugh or a spirited debate. She is survived by her children Gordon (Susan) and May; her grandchildren Fiona, Shena (Roger), David (Meredith) and Michael (Lisa) and her great-grandchildren Brianna, Dylan, Cerrick, Conlee, Alexis, Roger (Rachel), Madelyn, Samantha, Alex, Jacob, Hannah, Allison, and great, great grandchildren Emersyn and Raidyn.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Elizabeth, and all her siblings, her husband Gordon, and later, by her second husband Harry.
Celebrating a Life Well Lived
Alice's life was one of resilience, humor, and love. She lived well, was deeply cherished, and will be missed.