Bernice Ruey Phillips

Bernice Ruey Phillips entered this world on July 6, 1929 and departed on August 19, 2024. She is the 5th of 6 siblings born to Warren and Gay (Douglas) Phillips. She was preceded in death by her parents, 5 sisters, husband Garland Phillips, daughter Sharon (Phillips) Carter, son Steven Phillips, and son-in-law Mike Schwinne. Bernice is survived by her daughters Kathy (Phillips) Schwinne and Kim (and Randy) Balling; 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and many other relatives, friends, former co-workers and acquaintances.

In 1948, Bernice married Garland Phillips and were in love for 52 years. Bernice was a long-time employee at the Schottenstein’s North Store, working various positions there. In addition to raising her own children, she also raised other children she invited into her home. She was affectionately referred to as “Ma-maw” by many family members and close friends. She had a warm, friendly smile, always offered a kind word to others, and was willing to help people if and when she could. Bernice was a great cook, and was noted for the meals she prepared Sunday afternoons. She enjoyed playing cards (such as Solitaire, Uno, 31), Scrabble, and working crossword puzzles, before her eyesight diminished to the point that she had to give up this activity. Bernice also ventured into the role of landlord by renting houses on her street to people in need of a home. She listened to different types of music but found pleasure in the older Christian spirituals. 

Bernice died peacefully, surrounded by family members. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. May she find eternal comfort and happiness in the presence of her loving God.

Visiting hours to celebrate Bernice’s life will be from 11:00am-1:00pm on Monday, August 26, 2024 at the Newcomer Funeral Home – Northeast Chapel (3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, 43231), concluding with a eulogy of her life. Bernice will be interred in a gravesite ceremony beginning at 2:00pm at Northlawn Memory Gardens (7060 State Route 3, Westerville, OH 43082). In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Foundation or a charity of your choice in her name.