Geraldine Phillips

Geraldine Ann Phillips, 88 of Elk Rapids, died peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on Thurs. April 27, 2017. She was born Dec. 31, 1928 in Big Rapids, the daughter of Charles and Flavia "June" (Smith) Gren. She grew up in Evart, where she graduated high school and met the love of her life Orval E. Phillips. They married Mar. 13, 1948, and moved to Elk Rapids in the early 60's. Together they owned and operated Phillips Sand and Gravel for many years. Gerrie was very active in the Elk Rapids community. She organized and helped with the Lions Club yard sale for years and was part of the Elk Rapids Sports Boosters. Gerrie was so involved in the community, that she was named Citizen of the Year for all the things she did, and helped with in Elk Rapids. There was a revolving door at Gerrie's house. She loved company and never turned any one away, with many of her children and grandchildren coming to live with her for periods of time. She loved to bake and cook for those that came to visit and stay, always having a warm smile and listening ear to greet them. Gerrie enjoyed her music. She loved to listen to bluegrass and country, even learning to play the guitar and sing many of the songs for anyone who'd listen. In her spare time Gerrie liked to go camping and fishing. Left to cherish her memory are her loving children Beverly (Tom) Cashen of Mt. Pleasant, Susan (JR) Anderson of Williamsburg, Sandra L. Phillips of Elk Rapids, Charles (Johnnie) Phillips of Rapid City, Mary Ellen (Mike) Bradfield of Kewadin, Laurie Phillips of Bellaire, 13 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Orval (1986), 3 brothers and 1 sister. A Celebration of Life will be held Sat. May 13, at 3 pm at her home, 8672 Cairn Hwy, Elk Rapids with an additional gathering of family and friends continuing until 6 pm. She will join her husband in Garfield Township Cemetery, Lake, MI, for interment. Memorial donations can be given to the Antrim County Commission on Aging or the Elk Rapids Sports Boosters. Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.