Mary E. “Jamila” Phillips

REFLECTION OF LIFE

With full hearts, we honor the life of Mary “Jamila” Elizabeth Phillips — a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor whose warmth and grace touched every life she encountered. Born on November 18, 1948, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Benjamin J. and Laura Bell Haley Edwards, Jamila carried a joyful, unforgettable spirit wherever she went.

A proud graduate of Crispus Attucks High School, Jamila started her early career as a model for JCPenney and L.S. Ayres before discovering her true passion. Even then, she lit up every room — and every runway — with the same confidence and charm she brought to everyday life.

On May 10, 1975, Mary Elizabeth was married to George Anthony Phillips in a Holy Matrimony. The couple had two sons, and from that day on, Jamila made sure everyone in the house knew who truly ran things… with love, grace, and just enough side-eye to keep everyone in line.

Jamila lived a rich, beautiful life across several cities — Chicago, IL; Minneapolis, MN; and later Derry, NH. At just 18 years old, she started her lifelong career in the airline industry as a flight attendant, beginning a remarkable 49-year journey with Eastern Airlines, Northwest Airlines, and ultimately Delta Airlines. She rose to the role of Purser and traveled the world with pride. Whether it was South America, Mexico, India, Europe, or cities across the U.S., she always knew the best places to eat, stay, and explore. Traveling wasn’t just her job — it was her joy. And if you ever flew with her, you knew instantly that you were in good hands… and that you better keep that seatbelt fastened.

She is preceded in death by her parents and beloved siblings: James Edwards Sr., Reginald Edwards Sr., Rufus Edwards Sr., Wayne Edwards, Alice Young, JoAnn Porter, and Estell Marcia Edwards McAllister — all of whom she loved dearly and spoke of frequently. Undoubtedly, she has now joined their heavenly reunion, likely already organizing things there.

Jamila was the heart of her family — a nurturer, a listener, and the best grandmother anyone could ask for. Her kindness, elegance, humor, and gentle strength shaped the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a gift for making people feel loved, a talent for making people laugh, and a way of showing you — without saying a word — that you were capable of more.

Mary “Jamila” Elizabeth Phillips transitioned on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the age of 76 years, 11 months, and 26 days. She leaves behind her loving husband, George Anthony Phillips; her children Jelani Phillips (Tanya Phillips) and Paki Phillips (Daryl Phillips); her adored grandchildren Ayana Phillips, Jelani Phillips Jr., Zyrie Phillips, and Kyrie Phillips; her brother Donald Edwards Sr. (Helen Edwards); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who were truly like family.

Her journey, her love, and her light will forever live on in all of us. And if she were here right now, she’d probably remind us to enjoy life, take the trip, love our people, and — above all — keep flying high.