Freda Belle Phillips

Freda Belle Phillips, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on July 28, 1939, in Virginia, Freda was the daughter of the late Garland and Nellie Northam. She was a warm and vibrant presence in the lives of all who knew her, residing in Pocomoke City, Maryland, for many years.

Freda was a dedicated homemaker who poured her love and energy into her family. She married the love of her life, Maurice Phillips, in 1957. Together they raised two children. She cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Freda derived great joy from spending time with her family, whether it was camping, fishing, cooking them a meal or singing with them.

As a member of Pitts Creek Baptist Church, Freda strengthened her faith. A gifted singer and instrumentalist, she could often be found entertaining the residents of Hartley Hall or delighting friends and family with her guitar and harmonica skills. She is also remembered as "The Virginia Sweetheart" from her performances on the WDMV radio "Eddie Matherly Show." When she wasn't singing or spending time with her family, Freda found joy in simple pleasures, including crocheting and completing word puzzles. Her magnetic personality and feisty spirit lit up every room she entered, making her a cherished fixture among her loved ones and friends.

Freda Belle will be forever cherished by her daughter, Patti Smith and son-in-law Danny Smith; son, Michael Phillips; grandchildren, Daniel "Danny" Smith, Jr. and Eric Smith; and great-grandchildren, Kamrin Smith and Caleb Smith.

In addition to her parents, Freda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Maurice Phillips; daughter-in-law, Laurie Phillips; brothers, Vernon Northam, Alvah Northam, and Gerald Northam; and her sisters, Juanita Burton and Gail Spicer.

Family and friends are invited to honor Freda's memory during visitation services scheduled for February 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holloway Funeral Home, 107 Vine Street, Pocomoke City, MD, followed by a funeral ceremony at 12:00 p.m. She will be laid to rest at First Baptist Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in her memory to Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802.