The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces with sadness the passing of Presvytera Mary Phillips on March 6, 2016. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by her loving husband, Father Theodore Phillips, and her daughter Erys Phillips. She is also survived by her son, Theodore, grandson Eric, sister Rose Linardos, brother John Economou, and many extended family members all who grieve her passing.
Presvytera Mary was born on April 7, 1930 in Pasadena, CA. After she completed school, she met and married Father Theodore Phillips at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles on July 5, 1953 and they enjoyed 62 years together until her passing. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who was always eager to help others and brighten their lives through her cheerful disposition and her warm sense of humor.
“I extend my sincere condolences to the Phillips family on the passing of Presvytera Mary. She was truly the epitome of service in her support of Father Theodore’s ministry, and in the many ways she served her community,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “Throughout her life she lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ by doing for others, and I am certain she has earned her reward of righteousness in the Lord’s kingdom.”
In addition to her support of parish ministries including Philoptochos, Newcomer Welcoming Committee, and hosting the Inquirer’s Class for Orthodoxy in their home, Presvytera Mary was involved in other charitable works throughout her life including Church Women United, volunteering at the State Hospital in Stockton, California, and she worked with the blind. She was a pillar of strength for her husband’s ministry and worked closely with him on the building of Saints Constantine and Helen Church in Cardiff.
The Trisagion Service will be prayed on Wednesday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m., and the Funeral will be held onThursday, March 10 at 10:00 a.m. Both services will be held at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 3459 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007. A Makaria meal will be offered at the church immediately following the funeral. At the family’s request, the interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, it was Presvytera Mary’s desire that donations in her memory be made to Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church and offered for college scholarships to deserving students.
May her memory be eternal!