Elissa Phillips

Elissa Mae Satchell-Phillips, a charismatic embodiment of love and laughter, was born as the sun's first rays peeked over the horizon on November 30th, 1956 in Millville, NJ. Her life was a radiant journey that spanned 67 unforgettable years, culminating with the setting sun on February 10, 2024. Elissa's spirit, characterized by her wit and infectious humor, illuminated the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy, deeply rooted in love and dedication to her family, will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.

Elissa lived a vibrant life, full of passion and purpose. She graduated from Millville High School in 1975 then attended Cumberland County College and became a certified Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist. She spent her career as a Direct Support Professional at The Training School at Vineland. This provided her a platform to extend her innate nurturing nature to those within her community. Her charismatic personality and caring spirit made her a beacon of comfort to those she served. In her free time, Elissa found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was often found dancing to her favorite artist, Charlie Wilson, cooking for her loved ones, spending time with her family and beloved dogs Benji and Bear, or occasionally visiting the casino. She cherished laughter and instilled in her family the importance of humor and joy.

A doting mother, loving wife, and adoring grandmother, Elissa lived for her family. She is survived by her husband, David Phillips; her former husband, Donald Johnson Sr, and their children, Tiffany (Lawrence) Underwood, Bernadette Satchell, Donte (Carla) Satchell, and Latesha Artis; her grandchildren, Qwamaine Ford, Qwamear Ford, Nastasia Satchell, Seneca Harris, Senasia Harris, Danai Mason, Tyrif and Tyzir Mason, and Da'Cre Artis; her brothers, Bruce and Willie Jr, her twin sisters, Terri and Sherri; her aunts that she considered sisters, Joeann Pender, Selena Artis, Maria (Alexander) Ratliffe. She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie Satchell and Barbara Artis; her son, Donald "DJ" Jr; her brother Jerome Satchell; her uncles and aunts that she considered brothers and sisters, Belma, Haywood, Juanita, Orestes, Marisa, and Jerome; and her dog Bentley.

As we celebrate Elissa's life, let us hold onto the words of 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."

We invite you to share your memories and photos of Elissa on her memorial page by scanning code. It is through these shared experiences that we can continue to honor her spirit and keep her memory alive in our hearts.