Theo Joeann Phillips, age 87, of Media, Illinois, passed away Sunday, April 21, 2024 at Oak Lane Nursing & Rehab in Stronghurst. She was born April 16, 1937 in Stronghurst, the daughter of George and Dorothy Kemp Brewer. On July 31, 1954, she married Donald William “ Bill” Phillips in Stronghurst. He survives.
Theo was a 1954 graduate of Stronghurst High School. She worked at the former Hurry Back Grill for several years, and later was bookkeeper for Bob’s TV and Appliance for many years, retiring in 2017. She was an avid bowler, and bowled for several years in the Henderson County Women’s league at the Country Fun Bowling Center near Biggsville, and later, in Burlington, Iowa. She enjoyed reading, baking, and spending time with her family.
Survivors include her husband: Bill, three daughters: Patti (Neal) Avery of Media, IL, Vicky Trujillo, and Rita (Matt) Brown, both of Colorado Springs, CO, two sons: Ronald (Yolanda) Phillips of Denver, CO and William (Kathy) Phillips of Springfield, MO, eighteen grandchildren, twenty eight great grandchildren, and fourteen great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daughter: Judy Gaylord, one granddaughter: Stacey Phillips, two brothers: Dick and Wilbur Brewer, and one sister: Barbara Piper.
The funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday April 25, 2024 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst with Steve Minkler officiating. Burial will follow in the Carman Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Banks & Beals. A memorial fund has been established for the Henderson County Cancer Fund. Please visit Theo’s obituary at banksandbeals.com to leave a condolence.
