Eloise Mae Alden Phillips, a long-time educator and human resources professional, passed away on , surrounded by her family in Burlington, North Carolina. She was 97 years old.
Born in Fargo, North Dakota, on , to Clifford Roberts Alden and Mayme Theodora Anderson Alden, Eloise spent much of her formative years in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Scott High School in Coatesville in 1946. That same summer, a family vacation to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, proved pivotal, as she met Clifford Phillips, a native of the area. Their courtship blossomed quickly, leading to marriage in the fall of 1946 and a life together centered in Rehoboth.
In 1952, the couple relocated to Coatesville, Pennsylvania, to raise their family. Eloise dedicated nearly two decades to full-time motherhood before embarking on a career at Burroughs Corporation in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Starting as an employee, she steadily advanced through the ranks, demonstrating a talent for human resources management. She ultimately retired in 1990 as a department head, leaving a legacy of leadership and dedication.
Eloise’s commitment to community extended beyond her professional life. She was a devoted member of Romansville Methodist Church for almost 50 years, where she shared her passion for education by teaching both adult and children’s Sunday school classes. This long-term involvement highlights her dedication to fostering spiritual growth and knowledge within her community.
In 2004, Eloise and Cliff moved to Twin Lakes Community in Burlington, North Carolina, to be closer to their children. They embraced their new surroundings, forging friendships and enjoying an active lifestyle. The couple continued to prioritize family, delighting in the accomplishments of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, attending sporting events and celebrating academic achievements.
Eloise was predeceased by her husband, Clifford Phillips, who passed away in 2016 after 69 years of marriage. She is survived by her four children: Robin Shobert of Sarasota, Florida. Fred Phillips of Greensboro, North Carolina; Tim Phillips of Sunset Beach, North Carolina; and Alan Phillips of Swedesboro, New Jersey. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, representing a continuing family legacy.
A joint interment service for Eloise and Clifford will be held this June at Epworth Methodist Church Cemetery in Rehoboth, Delaware, alongside Cliff’s parents, Fred and Emily (Ewing) Phillips. This final resting place signifies the couple’s deep roots in the Rehoboth community and their enduring family ties.
The family will host a Celebration of Life at Kings Creek Country Club in Rehoboth Beach on , at 10:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and share memories of Eloise and Clifford. Those wishing to attend are asked to RSVP by , by emailing Tim Phillips at timphillips2017@gmail.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Twin Lakes Employee Assistance Fund, located at 3701 Wade Coble Drive, Burlington, NC 27215. This gesture reflects Eloise’s appreciation for the care and support she received at Twin Lakes Community and her commitment to recognizing the contributions of its staff.
Eloise Phillips’s life exemplifies a dedication to family, community, and lifelong learning. Her career trajectory, from devoted homemaker to successful human resources leader, demonstrates adaptability and a commitment to professional growth. Her long-standing involvement with Romansville Methodist Church underscores her spiritual foundation and her desire to share her knowledge and faith with others. The upcoming celebration of life will undoubtedly be a testament to the positive impact she had on the lives of those who knew her.
