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PHILLIPS -- Rosemary Joan FitzGerald Phillips died at home on August 30, 2008. She was born January, 20, 1921, in Oak Park, Illinois. Along with her younger sisters, Betty and Bonnie, she grew up in Danville, Illinois, where she met her husband, Rockford Lear Phillips. They married in Evanston, Illinois, on March 17, 1943, and she became the wife of a naval pilot. Rosemary graduated from nursing school in Evanston and became a Registered Nurse. Later she earned her real estate license in Florida, and a pilot's license in the Philippines. She and Rocky lived and traveled the world and experienced the sights and life in London and Europe as well as the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Giving to others was a priority for her; she supported a multitude of charitable organizations and leaves a legacy of newspaper clippings, soup, cookies, and visits when friends were in need. All her life she volunteered; she and Rocky were volunteers at the Rio Grande Nature Center for many years. They were avid swimmers at Los Altos Pool and maintained an active lifestyle. Family gatherings focused around bountiful meals she prepared. Rosemary is survived by her husband of 65 years, Rockford; her sister, Betty FitzGerald; and was a loving mother and grandmother to three grown children and their families: Stephen and Karlene Phillips, Ryan and Kasey; Bonnie Thompson, Wendi and Christy; and Eric and Debra Phillips, Ian and Lauren, three great-grandsons, and many others who considered her their "mother". Cremation has taken place and a memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2008 from 2:00-4:00 pm at the family home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Friends of the Rio Grande Nature Center (FRGNC) 2901 Candelaria NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107. 
Published on: Sat September 06, 2008