Bernice C. Phillips

Bernice C. Phillips, 92, of McKinney, TX departed this world on September 16, 2024. Born on February 28, 1932, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, to Clarence and Adline Cowherd. Bernice's journey through life was marked by her unwavering faith and her deep love for her family and community.

As a dedicated educator, Bernice found joy in shaping the minds of preschool aged children, nurturing their spirits with warmth and kindness. Her passion for teaching was paralleled only by her commitment to her church, where she was an active and cherished member. Bernice loved to sing and often filled the sanctuary with her melodious voice, a true testament to her vibrant spirit and faith. Her laughter was infectious, brightening the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Bernice was a faithful member of Inward Faith Outreach Ministries. 

Throughout her life, Bernice's greatest treasures were her children and grandchildren. She embraced motherhood with an open heart, raising a loving family that included her daughters, Donna Pead, Bobbie Wilkerson, Georgia (Charles) Dowell, Jackie (Walter) Abney, and Kathy (Arthur) Phillip; and her sons, William (Melma) Phillips, Mike Phillips, and Hugh Phillips; her grandchildren, Shawn Mitchell, Tony Pead, Takissha Brost, Robert Baker, Tyrone Baker, Elona Baker, Leslie Wilkerson, Mario Wilkerson, Craig Leon Dowell, Charles Tyrone Dowell, Derrick Baker, James Baker, Julia Baker, William Phillips, Deandre Phillips, Terry Lee Phillips, Joyce Phillips, Denise Phillips, Michael Phillips, Steven Phillips, Candace Phillips, Eric Phillips, Erica Phillips, Jeffery Phillips, Shaki Phillips, Shermel Abney, Shaven Abney-Smith, Shacarrie Abney, Gary Wright Jr., Aramis Wright and Essence Lassiter and numerous great grandchildren. Each of them carries forward her legacy of kindness, laughter, and deep-rooted faith.

Bernice's life was also touched by the love of her late daughter, Brenda Baker, and the memory of her granddaughter, Sha'tavara Abney, both of whom she carried in her heart even after they departed this life. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving family members, who continue to honor her memory and the lessons she imparted throughout her cherished life.

Her legacy of faith, joy, and laughter will live on in their hearts and the many memories they shared with her. Bernice’s spirit will forever be a beacon of love, reminding us all to cherish those we hold dear and to embrace life with passion and an open heart.

Her family will greet friends and relatives on Thursday, September 26, 2024 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS. A funeral service in her honor will be at 11:00am on Friday, September 27, 2024 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery. In her honor, memorial contributions can be made to an organization of your choice.

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