Evelyn Jean "Ruth" Phillips of Rockford departed this earthly life February 27, 2023. She was born July 9, 1949 in Henning, TN the daughter of Sallie Hines. Evelyn lived in Rockford 45 years coming from Tennessee. She married Van Phillips, he preceded her in death. Evelyn was employed as a teacher while in Tennessee and after relocating to Rockford she became a domestic engineer at a local hotel and Rockford Memorial Hospital.  She was a member of Living Word Ministries, serving on the Mothers Board. She graduated from school in Tennessee.

Evelyn leaves to cherish many loving memories, her daughter, Karla Phillips; six grandsons, Robert Phillips, David Phillips, Willie Evans, Deandre Phillips, Quincy (Delaunce) Evans Gray and Milton (Tristan) Phillips; two grand daughters, Camesha (Marquis Gamble) Phillips and Karleshia Phillips; a host of great grandchildren; sister, Bobbie Lee and brother, Humphrey (Cindy) Sangster; a host of other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, husband; son Milton Phillips; and daughter in law Bondena Phillips.

Service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at Living Word Ministries 4426 Virginia Ave. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.