Frances Mae Phillips

Frances Mae Phillips, 72, of The Woodlands, Texas went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 26, 2016. She was born on September 29, 1943 to David Alfred and Loretta Marie Jackson in Vinita, Oklahoma. Frances was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Pete Jackson, Vern Jackson, and Norman Jackson. She is survived by her loving husband, Charlie Phillips; daughters, Jennifer Dian Wiatt and husband, Jeff and Mieka Suzanne Phillips; grandchildren, Joshua Wiatt and wife Jenni, Jordan Wiatt, and Jillian Wiatt; sisters, Susie Flaherty and Ada Parent and husband Charlie; and numerous more relatives and friends. Fran Phillips’s life, like that of all people, is partially defined by relationships. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, sister-in-law, mother-in-law, employee, co-worker, student, teacher, and friend to many. Fran wore many hats, such as editor of her high school yearbook and journalism major at Tulsa University, where she met her husband Charlie of 50 plus years. She later was a copywriter for a newspaper, as well as a Bridal Consultant. Fran enjoyed life. Those who knew her surely remember her for her love of nature, her countless, delectable goodies from the oven, her impeccable creations at the sewing machine and her infectious laughter. Undaunted by most tasks, she was a steel magnolia who exhibited strength under control. Her faith in God was her life foundation. She had the gift of hospitality. And she invested in young people. She was a sponsor of a church youth choir, taught Sunday School, led neighborhood bible studies, and spoke at Christian Women’s Clubs in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. But her primary ministry was that of serving as devoted wife to Charlie and mother, teacher and role model for her two daughters, Jennifer and Mieka. Fran’s children and grandchildren are just one part of the remarkable legacy she leaves behind. Yet all of this is just a snapshot of her life. When God looks at her life in its totality, her love for Him and others, her humility and her sacrifice, He likely will see one who ran her race…one who stayed the course even during suffering. God will welcome His good and faithful servant as she enters into the joy of her Lord, while we, as her family “arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” (Proverbs 31: 28-29)