Mary Alice Phillips

Mary Phillips, 83, Mother, Grandmother, Sister passed away on November 19th at 10:22 AM. She was born to Parker and Cecilia (Jenkins) Neff in Indianapolis in 1940.

She is survived by her 3 sons: Joe (Brenda) Phillips of Rockville, IN, Mike (Ann) Phillips of Eau Claire, WI, and Pat Phillips of Speedway, IN. She is also survived by 3 grandchildren: Mallory (Kyle) Chase of Burnsville, MN, Hannah of Eau Claire, WI and Matthew of Eau Claire, WI, her brother James Neff of Monterey, IN, and many cousins, nieces, & nephews.

She married Larry Phillips in 1963. While Mary did not serve in the military, she was a devoted and caring military wife for over 16 years. Her boys all agree that she was the best mother a child could ask for. She was always a loving and caring mother, but she could be strict when she needed to be. And sometimes, we made that easy for her.

She and Larry loved to travel. After retirement they took several cruises, travelled to Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Hawaii, several trips to Las Vegas, and many trips to Wisconsin to visit their grandchildren.

 Mary spent the last few years caring for Larry. She was always by his side making sure he had whatever he needed. After losing her devoted husband on May 31st, Mary began to decline rather quickly due to dementia and cancer. She was diagnosed with small cell carcinoma in her lungs, and it metastasized to her brain. While Mary had moments where she was pleasantly confused, she never let dementia, or her cancer affect her pleasant demeanor.

She liked to help with volunteering as well. She volunteered at the American Legion Post 500 on race weekends for many years. She also helped with gathering and delivering donations to local Veterans organizations.

Mary was an auxiliary member VFW post 98, American Legion post 500, Amvets Post 99, and frequented VFW Post 1587 often as well.

She is preceded in death by her parents Parker and Cecilia Neff, her stepmother Irene Neff, and her husband, Larry Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, please make a charitable contribution to Susan G. Komen foundation.

Following the service there will be a celebration of life at VFW Post 98. All are welcome.