Rose Mary Phillips

Rose Mary Phillips, 79, lifelong Rockford resident, died at 9:39 a.m. Sunday, February 6, 2011 in her home. Born September 5, 1931, daughter of Frank and Mary Giovingo Armato. Married James A. Phillips on November 25, 1950. Member of St. Bridget Catholic Church and a member of the Women's Auxiliary of the Verdi Club. She had previously been employed by Atwood Vacuum then she and her husband owned Phillip's Café in Roscoe. She spent many years employed by Boylan High School where she worked in their cafeteria. She loved the slots and Boylan basketball, but her family was always her priority. Her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews always came first.Survivors include her son, William (Lana) Phillips, Lees Summit, MO and their children, Christopher and Mark and great-grandson, Colin Phillips; son James M. (Jeanne) Phillips, Madison, WI and their children, Jennifer and Allie; daughter, Denise Phillips, Rockford and daughter, Deborah (Jason) Owen, Ft. Bragg, NC and their children, Denise Kelley and Evan Owen and great-granddaughter, Kaylen Kelley and many loved nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband on January 28, 1982, her parents, 5 sisters and a brother.A Mass of Celebration will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 10, 2011 in St. Bridget Catholic Church with Rev. Burt H. Absalon officiating. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation on Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. with a Rosary to be recited at 6:30 p.m. Visitation also from 9-9:45 a.m. Thursday at the church. Memorials may be made to the family. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.