Jean Phillips

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the recent unexpected passing of Jean Phillips (McMillan) of Highgate, ON. Jean passed away peacefully, at the age of 80, at Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on March 8, 2023 surrounded by family and friends. Jean was born in Chatham on February 9, 1943 to her late parents, Doug and Vera McMillan. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Cheryl Hammett (Scott) of Thamesford, Donna Phillips of London, her only sister Ruth Scott (late Bill) of Blenheim; her grandchildren Kelsey Hammett, Brent (Maddie) Hammett, Austin and Bree Merulla, son-in-law Mike Merulla; and extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband, Wray Phillips and her daughter, Karen Merulla.

Jean will be remembered for her many accomplishments and dedication to the nursing profession. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1964 and maintained meaningful friendships with many of her classmates. She enjoyed attending annual reunions with the St. Joseph’s Hospital Alumni. Jean was an active member of the Women’s Institute and volunteered her time at Revera Village on the Ridge (Ridgetown). She was known as an amazing seamstress, as well as a loving mother, wife, grandmother and friend.

Always an avid horse lover, Jean was a longstanding member of the American Saddlebred Association and their Zone Club, as well as the Canadian Arabian Horse Association and their Zone 1 Arabian Club. She frequently entered the ring as an active participant in the Silver Shadow Horse Shows and enjoyed taking part in classes at the CNE, Western Fair and local Fall Fairs. Her love for animals was apparent by her dedication to all of her animals. She will be greatly missed by her miniature horse, Diego, her beloved horses, Ali and Careb, as well as her beautiful and colorful peacocks, chickens and goats whom she lovingly cared for over the years. She also leaves behind her German Shepherd dog, Juno, who she regarded as her faithful companion and best friend. Jean and Ruth also enjoyed group get togethers, day trips, musicals, plays and meals out. We are also grateful to her friends in the horse world who arranged extra gatherings over the years at the farm, including a surprise 80th birthday party where many of us enjoyed “men in kilts”; was a nice surprise for all.

Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of her friends and neighbours who took the time to regularly stop by her home for a visit. A special thank you to Caleb Schippers and Brooklyn Bowman for their extra help doing many different tasks; and Jean’s close friend and neighbour, Peg Conroy and family, for accompanying Jean on day trips, taking her to appointments and keeping her company. Thanks to the Doctor’s nurses at Windsor Regional Hospital and Chatham Kent Health Alliance.

There will be a Celebration of Life observance, for those who would like to say their last goodbye to Jean, on the 15th of April, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, 13146 Reeders Line, Ridgetown, followed by a get together at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 243, 75 Main Street East, Ridgetown. In lieu of flowers please consider a Donation to the Four Counties Health Services Adult Day Program, 4-H Programs, Heart & Stroke Foundation, Chatham-Kent Hospice, Animal Welfare or a charity of your choice.

We ask that you take a moment to hug your family and friends.

~Always loved, Forever missed, Never Forgotten~

A tribute to Jean’s life can be viewed by clicking the following link:

https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/22MZ7BLDLDBMQPJQ