After a remarkable 103 years of life, Margaret Veronica Phillips passed

away on December 9, 2023. She leaves behind a devoted family and

cherished friends who all acknowledge their incredible fortune at having

been part of her life. Margaret is survived by her loving daughters Veronica

(Alan) and Margaret (Scott), eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren,

as well as nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and nephews. She was

preceded in death by her husband, Charles William, her siblings Josephine

and George, her son William, and her daughter Gwendolyn.

Born in 1920 in Brooklyn, NY, Margaret was the second of three children.

Raised on 118th Street in Richmond Hill, she often recounted tales of

playing with her siblings Josephine and George in the streets, trailing the

paddy wagons to the 102 precinct, and petting the police horses.

Growing up during the Great Depression deeply influenced Margaret,

instilling in her a profound sense of gratitude and a commitment to the

welfare of others. She shouldered immense responsibility from a young

age, caring not only for her parents and siblings but also engaging in

advocacy and humanitarian work with the United China Relief. This

experience taught her the values of diplomacy, patience, confidence, and

determination. It was also where she honed her skills in preparing

outstanding Chinese cuisine, developed an appreciation for Chinese

calligraphy, and met Charles William Phillips.

Margaret and Charles exchanged vows in 1943 at Holy Child Jesus Church

in Richmond Hill. Together, they welcomed four children—William,

Veronica, Gwendolyn, and Margaret. Despite her role as a mother,

Margaret remained devoted to serving her community. Alongside raising

her own family, she devoted time to aiding those in need, visiting and

caring for the sick, volunteering at the Holy Child Jesus Church's Thrift

Store, and looking after her parents and in-laws. Margaret led by example,

instilling in each of her children the values of responsibility and service.

These values shaped their careers and passions, leading them to fields

such as education, nursing, military service, social justice reform, religious

counseling, and advocacy.

Beyond her selflessness and nurturing spirit, Margaret possessed a quiet

strength and unassuming intelligence that endeared her to many. Her

innate understanding of people left a lasting impact on everyone she

encountered. Most notably, Margaret exuded quiet confidence, never

seeking recognition or acknowledgment for her good deeds.

Her devoted family will forever carry her legacy of kindness, goodwill, and

dedication to serving others. Margaret's enduring legacy echoes the

celebration of angels at the birth of Christ: 'Glory to God in the highest, And

on earth peace, good will toward men' (Luke 2:14). To Margaret, nothing

was more important than fostering peace and goodwill among her fellow

human beings.

In Lieu of Flowers the Family of Margaret Veronica Phillips kindly asks for donations to the Northshore Animal League