Linda (Grey) Phillips

Linda Grey Phillips, age 77, passed away unexpectedly at her home near Faith, NC on January 13, 2025, after a period of declining health.

Born on August 4, 1947, to Gene and Ruby Morris, she graduated from East Rowan High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Appalachian State University. She was a beloved and respected teacher of 2nd and 3rd grade children for over 30 years in the Rowan-Salisbury School System, with a majority of her career at Bostian Elementary.

Linda is preceded in death by her husband Joe Phillips. She is survived by her son Brent Hartman; her brother Harold Morris (Becky) of Salisbury; and her stepdaughters Debbie Hill (Dennis) and Jody Tucker (Archie).

 She was a member of Wittenburg Lutheran Church and faithfully kept the nursery there for many years.

Linda enjoyed reading, watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, and doing the daily crossword. She was truly a special neighbor to the entire Old Farm Community. As their trusted neighborhood watchwoman, she looked out for everyone with unwavering dedication and care. She had a heart of gold, especially when it came to the neighborhood dogs. Not only did she love and treat them like her own, but she also fiercely advocated for them- often keeping animal control off their backs and ensuring they could roam freely and happily under her watchful eye.

Her 4th of July pool parties were legendary, filled with laughter and cherished memories, and her love for Halloween brought magic and fun to the whole neighborhood. She also had a zest for adventure, never missing a chance to head off on one of her beloved gambling trips, where she found excitement and joy that she loved to share with friends and family.

Her love for children and passion for education lives on through the lives of her students and fellow educators. Her kindness made her community better, and her impact will be felt for years to come. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and care lives on in all who knew her.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday January 17, 2025, at Brookhill Memorial Gardens, 8625 US-52, Rockwell, NC 28138. The service will be officiated by the Rev. John Woodard.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for memorials to be made to Faithful Friends, 220 Grace Church Rd, Salisbury, NC 28147.

Lyerly Funeral Home serves the Phillips family. Online condolences may be made at www.lyerlyfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Linda (Grey) Phillips, please visit our floral store.