Myrtle Mae Baker Chandler Phillips

Mrs. Myrtle Mae Baker Chandler Phillips, age 97, passed away on Saturday, October 15, 2016, at Pruitt Health in Toccoa, Georgia.

Born in Warren County, Georgia, on June 10, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Ida Belle Esco and John W. Baker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband: John Alfred Chandler, in 1979; her second husband: The Reverend Allen A. Phillips, in 1989; two half-brothers; and sisters: Mary, Velma, Edith, and Christine.

She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law: Novella Chandler Pilgrim and Jerry, Memphis, TN and Carolyn Chandler Stinespring and Curtis, Clarkesville, GA; stepdaughter: Beth Phillips Talbert, Lincolnton, GA; stepson: Jimmy Phillips and wife, Lisa, Ontario, Oregon; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a nephew; and nieces including: Linda Cleveland and Pati Roy (David) who were like daughters to her.

In 1937, Myrtle graduated from Tallulah Falls School where she was honored at the school’s homecoming in 2010 as Outstanding Former Student. She was a former member of Cornelia United Methodist Church where she worked in the children’s ministry for 25 years. The focus of her ministry there was with first and second grade children and she was well known in the community for her flannel board stories that she used to teach the Bible. Because of her dedication she was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Leadership and Faithful Service. Myrtle also worked for Belk Department Store in Cornelia for 25 years. Upon her marriage to Rev. Phillips in 1984, Myrtle moved to St. John Towers in Augusta, Georgia. There she began her ministry to senior citizens. She was President and Chairperson of Religious Life, known for her birthday boards for about 40 residents per month and her performing rhythm band. She moved to Wilkinson Center in Toccoa, Georgia in 2007 and became a member of Tallulah Falls United Methodist Church. At Wilkinson Center, she was known as the official “Welcome Lady” for new residents.

A private family funeral service was held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 20, 2016, at Tallulah Falls United Methodist Church, the church in which she grew up. The Reverend James E. Turpen, Sr. will officiate. Burial followed at Yonah Memorial Gardens.

Donations in Mrs. Phillips memory may be made to Tallulah Falls School, Director of Giving, P.O. Box 10, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573; Tallulah Falls United Methodist Church, 204 Church Street, Tallulah Falls, Georgia 30573; or to the charity of one’s choice.

Those wishing to express online condolences to the family may do so by visiting www.whitfieldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Whitfield Funeral Home& Crematory, North Chapel, 245 Demorest, Georgia. 706-778-1700