Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Phillips

Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Phillips, 80, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, with burial to follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Galena. Betty was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, cherished sister, and loyal friend whose kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Born and raised in the Galena area, Betty graduated from Galena High School. On February 19, 1966, Betty married the love of her life, Blaire F. Phillips, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, family, and hard work, sharing 60 wonderful years of marriage.  She and her beloved husband, Blaire, owned and operated a dairy farm for many years before she began a career at Honeywell Micro Switch, where she remained a dedicated employee until her retirement. Nothing brought Betty greater joy than caring for her family and friends. She was affectionately known as the family’s cookie maker, remembered for her famous sugar cookies and Grandma’s icebox cookies, as well as the many homemade desserts she lovingly prepared. She found happiness tending her flowers, spending time with those she loved, and gathering around the breakfast table with friends to share stories, laughter, and life’s everyday blessings. Above all else, Betty treasured the moments spent with her family, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Blaire of Scales Mound; her son, Kevin Phillips of Stockton; her daughter, Theresa Pooley of Scales Mound; and her three grandsons, Koy Matthew Phillips (Kally Jo Canon) of Apple River, Trinity Richard Pooley, and Chance Franklin Pooley, both of Scales Mound. She is also survived by her siblings, Robert Smith of IL, Raymond Smith of TX, and Janet McCabe of WI; her brother-in-law, Blaine Phillips of Loves Park; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Alma Smith; her siblings, Albert “Sonny” Smith, Charles Smith, and Judy Greene; her parents-in-law, Franklin and Anna Phillips; and her brothers-in-law, Ellsworth “Bud”, Claire, and Dennis Phillips. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Scales Mound First Responders and EMTs, Galena Ambulance, Elizabeth Ambulance, the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Department, and the staff of Furlong Funeral Chapel for their compassionate care, professionalism, and kindness.

6 thoughts on “Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Phillips

  1. Dar Spangler Reply

    Betty was a sweetheart and she made the best sugar cookies ever!
    Dar & Doc

  2. Joanne Schoenfeld Kouracos Reply

    I was so sorry to hear this sad news. Betty was such a nice person. My family thought very highly of her. She and Blaire were so wonderful to my aunt and uncle, Shorty and Mae, and then especially to Shorty after Mae passed. Betty and Blaire were the children they never had. Betty designed their beautiful and truly unique headstone. Everyone had such nice things to say about their kindness. I will miss seeing her at family functions (sadly, mostly funerals these days.) Our hearts go out to the family. She will be missed.
    Jo and Jim Kouracos

  3. Sheila Bowell Reply

    We will miss your famous cookies! Thank you for always treating us as family. Thinking of your family. You will be missed!

  4. Connie Winter Reply

    Sending our prayers, condolences, love and hugs to you all. Since I’ve been a part of the family, I’ve always admired Betty for her kindness, strength and honesty. We will miss her too, but she will remain in our hearts, forever.

  5. Dianne Paxton Reply

    Betty was a wonderful person. I have many good memories of when we got together after high school. She was not only my cousin but a great friend. Sadly we didnt see each other much after we married and had our own families. But would bump into each other at Happy Joes. My deepest sympathy to Blaire and their family.

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