Naomi Phillips Chance's Obituary
Naomi Phillips Chance (Pie/Granny), resident of Memphis TN, passed away on Saturday October 28, 2023
Naomi was born February 23, 1927, in Stantonville, TN. She was the daughter of Mary Elizabeth (Lizzie) Boshart Philips and William Reid (Mr. Reid) Phillips. After Lizzie’s death, Mr. Reid married Edith Milligan (Miss Edie).
A devoted Tiger fan, Naomi graduated with her master's degree in education from Memphis State University and worked at several Memphis City Schools. She ultimately retired from Trezevant High School in 1983, where she worked as a teacher/health instructor and as a coach for cheer and all female sports.
She was a baker, cook/chef, seamstress, pianist and artist who enjoyed ceramics, needlework, and other types of crafts. She was extremely proud of her small-town roots. She was a devoted member of Highland Heights United Methodist Church where she formed strong relationships with the Lord and with her fellow church members. After retiring, she enjoyed traveling with her husband and residing part- time at their home on the Tennessee river.
She was devoted to her family, especially her grand and great grandchildren. She is survived by her son, Phillip (Celia) from Seattle Washington, her son Joseph (Gina) from Memphis TN and by her grandchildren, Joseph (Lindsey and daughters, Carly
and Macy), Drew (Kelsey and children Wilder and Molly), Brent (Sallie and son, Walker) all of the Memphis area and her youngest granddaughter, Dena, of Seattle. Naomi and her family cherished spending lively times together during the holidays, especially at Christmas, and in the summer.
Naomi was predeceased by her parents and her sisters Mary Willie Murdaugh (Jim), Nona Jewell Miller (Frank) and Ruth Phillips Nicholls (Cason) and their children.
Naomi is now dancing in heaven to swing music with her beloved husband of over 49 years, Joe. Her only regret was that she never saw her favorite Tiger, Penny, lead the University of Memphis to a NCAA championship.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s association or to the charity of your choice.
Funeral Services will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Ave. Memphis, TN. 38119. On Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Burial will take place on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 1:00 pm, at Stantonville Community Cemetery, Stantoville, TN., 8032 TN 142, Stantonville,TN. 38379
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