Onterial Terry Phillips

Onterial (Terry) Phillips, a beloved mother, grandmother, and pillar of her community, passed away on October 13, 2023, in Champaign, Illinois. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by those who knew her.

Born on March 3, 1938, in Rogersville, TN, Onterial's journey was marked by a commitment to education and service. She graduated from college with a degree in Home Economics, embarking on a career that saw her work as a nutritionist at the former Cole Hospital for many years. Later, she continued her devoted service on the Campus of the University of Illinois until her well-deserved retirement in 2016.

Onterial was a dedicated professional and a steadfast servant of her faith. She spent forty-five years as a Trustee and Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church member. Within the church, her devotion was unparalleled as she served as the administrative assistant to Reverend Doctor Lunday Savage, working closely by his side. She also took on the role of executive assistant during Reverend Savage's tenure as third vice president of the National Baptist Convention and Moderator of the Fellowship Baptist District Association. Her unwavering commitment to her church and community touched countless lives.

Onterial's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her children Thelma Gibson-Brown, Mitzi O. Greene, William Q. Greene, Warren (Garla) Green, Melvin (Dissree) Greene, and Sharon Greene. Additionally, she leaves behind the daughters she never had but grew to love, Madeline Jackson, Sue Hinds, and Sharon Mullins. Her family tree has grown strong, with twenty-nine grandchildren, thirty-nine great-grandchildren, sixteen great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews and loved ones, all of whom will carry forward the lessons of love and faith that Onterial instilled in them.

Onterial was preceded in death by her husband, Willard Phillips. Her parents, Neil Ewing and Cornella Watterson, sisters Parthina Deal, Gary Jackson, and Gearldean Mann, and one brother, Houston Watterson. Two daughters, a son, one grandchild, one great-grandchild, and two great-great-grandchildren. While she may have said goodbye to them in this life, their spirits will forever be intertwined with hers.

Onterial rests in the arms of her Creator, surrounded by the loved ones who preceded her, and her memory will forever shine as a beacon of love and devotion in our hearts. May she find eternal peace.

Special thanks to Leshandra Hayes and Sharon Mullins for their support and for always being there when called. The family truly thanks you.

A homegoing celebration will commence at 12:00 Noon Friday October 27, 2023 at Mount Olive Baptist Church 808 E. Bradley Ave,Champaign. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am until the time of the service. Burial will follow after at Woodlawn Cemetery.

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