Minister Ruby Lee "Tina" Phillips

Minister Ruby Lee "Tina" Phillips, 87, of Irvington, New Jersey, entered eternal rest on September 9, 2025. Born on July 21, 1938, in Newton, Georgia, she was the beloved daughter of the late Fannie K. Baldwin-Crawford and was lovingly known to her family as "Tina." Ruby grew up in East Palatka, Florida, where her journey of faith and purpose began.
Ruby received her early education in the Florida school system, graduating from Central Academy High School in 1956. She continued her studies at Collier Blocker Junior College in Palatka before moving to New Jersey, where she earned additional certifications and degrees from Signa Business College, Essex County College, and Upsala College. Her love for learning and deep devotion to the Lord inspired her to pursue a Doctorate in Religious Education from The Lighthouse Christian College through the Christian Pentecostal Bible College in Irvington, NJ.
A dedicated professional, Ruby worked with Prudential Insurance Company of America for 24 years and later with North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance for eight years, retiring from both with numerous awards and commendations. Never one to remain idle, she later joined E-ZPass, where she enjoyed serving the public.
Ruby's life was marked by an unwavering love for God and music. Soon after settling in New Jersey, she joined Mount Vernon Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend James Perry, Sr. There she faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, Announcing Clerk, and lead singer in the Adult Choir, attending Bible Study and Prayer Meetings with joy. In September 2002, following God's direction, Ruby became an Associate Minister at Good Samaritan Christian Ministries under Pastor Reverend Gilbert Toler. The following month, she was ordained as a Minister through the World Gospel Musical Association (WGMA), led by Dr. Albert J. Lewis Jr., where she also shared her gifts as a longtime choir member. Her passion for ministry led her to graduate from United Chaplain International Worldwide Outreach, Inc.
In January 2013, Ruby returned to Mount Vernon Baptist Church under Pastor Milton Biggham, where she rejoined various ministries, including the Voices of the Mount. Her love for the Lord and music inspired her to publish a book along with writing and recording several songs, spreading the message of God's love far and wide.
Ruby made Irvington her home for over 50 years, raising her two cherished sons, Ceddric and Matthew. She will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her generous heart, her radiant voice, and her devotion to family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Ceddric Blair, and by her siblings Hilda, Costell, Josey, William, Major, Doris, Robert, Bennie Lee, and Irvin. She leaves to treasure her memory: her devoted son Matthew Phillips (Jill), her loving sister Vivian Crawford, a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and many dear friends.
As Minister Ruby often said, "I pray the life I live will speak for me." Her life surely has.
This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of Minister Ruby Lee Phillips. Leave a message on the Tribute Wall to share your favorite memories and offer words of sympathy and comfort.