VIENNA, Ill. – Florence Phillips, 57, passed away Oct. 6, 2009. Florence was born June 6, 1952, in Patten, the daughter of Melvin Porter Craig and Marjorie (Whitten) Craig. Florence was a graduate of Island Falls High School, Island Falls. She was employed as administrator of Johnson County General Assistance Office for 17 years. Florence was united in marriage to George M. “Mickey” Phillips, Sept. 17, 1971, in Anchorage, Alaska. Along with her husband, Mickey, she owned and operated River Valley Transport Co., a commercial transportation business. Florence oversaw the business operation of the company and in this capacity established a network of friends and contacts throughout the United States. Florence enjoyed watching her children participate in sporting events. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and was always willing to help others and especially enjoyed helping the elderly. Florence was of the Christian faith. In addition to her husband, she is survived by a son, Michael Phillips of Vienna, Ill.; a daughter, Allison Qureshi and her husband, Naeem, of Marion, Ill.; two grandchildren, Zayn Qureshi and Maya Qureshi; a brother, Willard Craig of Patten; a special sister-in-law, Irene Craig Short of Patten; a dear lifelong friend, Gail Campbell of Island Falls; special friends, Barb Warmack, Joyce Drew, Ruth Mathis, Mary Lou McKenzie, Mary Scarborough and Nina Weston; nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Florence was predeceased by a grandson, Kamran Qureshi; a sister, Eva Craig Bishop; and four brothers, Jack, Beecher, Isaac and Melvin Craig. The family especially thanks the dedicated caregivers of Hospice of Southern Illinois for all their loving attention and service during Florence’s final days. Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service celebrating the life of Florence Phillips 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 9, at Vienna Fraternal Cemetery with Brother Richard Bundren officiating. Those attending the service are asked to gather approximately 10:45 a.m. at the cemetery. There will be no public visitation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Heather Harper Treat Memorial Cancer Fund, P.O. Box 98, Vienna, IL 62995 or Coach Kill Cancer Fund, Attn: Paula Frisch, P.O. Box 3988, Carbondale, IL 62901. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey Funeral Home, Vienna, Ill. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.baileyfh.com.
FLORENCE PHILLIPS
