Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rebello Funeral Home & Crematory on Jan. 20, 2026.
Geraldine A. (Xavier) Phillips, affectionately known as Gerry to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, in East
Providence, RI. Born on August 9, 1940, in
Providence, RI, Gerry was a beacon of love and kindness throughout her 85 years.
The daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Medeiros) Xavier, Gerry grew up in a warm household that valued family above all. She carried these values throughout her life, nurturing her own family with the same loving care. She was the cherished wife of the late Edward Phillips, and together they shared a lifetime of memories and unwavering partnership.
Gerry was a devoted mother to Paul Phillips ,Sr. and his wife Kelley of Bradford, RI, and Laurie Johannis and her husband Robert of Riverside. Her role as a mother was one she held dear, guiding her children with a gentle hand and a generous heart. She was also a proud grandmother to Courtney Anne, Paul Edward Jr., Derek Robert, and Sarah Elizabeth, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.
Gerry lived her life defined by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for family. She especially cherished her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her eyes. She formed a special bond with each of them, leaving an everlasting imprint on their hearts, her grandchildren were the love of her life.
Gerry was a wonderful cook which made the holidays and special family time extra special. Everything she made was her way of expressing love to her family especially with her "Grammy's Corn Flake Potatoes", and a delicious Portuguese dish or something sweet like the holiday staple her chocolate chip cream cheese squares.
Gerry will live in our hearts forever and will be lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, smiles, and strong family traditions that will be carried on by family and friends for a lifetime. Through everything she made and provided for her children and grandchildren, to show them the depth of her love every single day.
She was the sister of the late Edward ,Robert and Richard Xavier. Geraldine's extended family, including many nieces and nephews, will remember her for her warmth and the selfless love she extended to each of them.
Gerry's work ethic was evident through her years of dedicated service in the Packaging Department at Nordstrom and later at Chartwells in the Charter School in Tiverton. Her colleagues knew her as a kind and dependable team member who brought light and laughter into the workplace.
After moving to East Providence in 2024 from the Fox Point Section of Providence, Gerry quickly became an active member of the community, particularly as a parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength and solace.
Her interests were a reflection of her sociable and engaging nature. Gerry enjoyed card games, visiting the casino, and playing bingo, often surrounded by friends and family who shared her zest for life. Her hands were rarely idle, as she found joy in crocheting and tending to her garden. Additionally, she was an active participant in the Country View Estates activities, where her presence was a source of comfort and camaraderie.
Gerry's loving, kind, and selfless nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her legacy will continue to live on through the beautiful memories she created with those she loved and the lives she touched with her generous spirit. Geraldine A. "Gerry" (Xavier) Phillips will be deeply missed, yet her light will continue to shine in the hearts of her beloved family and friends. Her life was a testament to the beauty of kindness and the strength of familial bonds, and she will be remembered with love and gratitude.
Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. Services are private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the
Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island Chapter ,245 Waterman St., Suite 306,
Providence, RI 02906.
Arrangements by the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, East Providence.
www.rebellofuneralhomes.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Geraldine "Gerry" Ann (Xavier) Phillips, please visit our floral store.