Gaze into the peaceful, calm, unhurried day in the life of Mary Ann Phillips. Gardening, cultivating, and caring for her flowers with special attention to her beloved irises, listening and watching the birds. Hr love of the simple life and appreciation of the natural beauty which surrounded her kept her close to her lifelong home in Hay Springs, Nebraska.

 

Born on February 22, 1930 on a farm west of Hay Springs, Nebraska, Mary Ann grew up with her older sister, Irene along with their parents, John and Olga. Mary Ann graduated from hay Springs High School in 1947. She worked with her Father on the farm until his death. Mary Ann worked at the A & W, drove tractor for her cousin and later served as a personal assistant caring for her mother and others.

 

Mary Ann was satisfied and content to carry on a traditional, quiet life, playing the piano, collecting stamps and postcards and creating embroidery pieces which won her blue ribbons. Clearly, her choices of activities reveal her reserved yet resolute nature. She loved cats, enjoyed swimming at Hot Springs and was a member of the Red Hat Society.

 

Known by her family, friends, and acquaintances as a caring, loving, compassionate, and selfless woman with a tender heart and helpful spirit. Mary Ann exhibited these attributes by taking her cousin’s to the movies, Elvis Presley was a favorite; then later by caring not only for her aging mother but for others. She volunteered at Pioneer Manor for nearly twenty years.

 

All who knew Mary Ann recognized her fine example as a faithful, loyal, and self-sacrificing daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Irene, her sister, especially enjoyed regular communication through hand-written letters and phone calls to keep up with the new and events. For many years, Irene and George (Brown) would journey from Oregon to Nebraska to spend time with Mary Ann and Olga. They would assist with chores and repairs around “the place” and enjoy their companionship.

    

One year, Mary Ann agreed to make the trip “West” for Irene and George’s 60th anniversary. Many enjoyable hours were spent getting to experience her company learning from her ‘slow and easy’ style. You see, she didn’t “sweat the small stuff.” Little did she know that her humble, sincere, and brave demeanor made a lasting impression on ALL who loved her.

    

Mary Ann’s family includes, her sister, Irene Brown of Portland, Oregon, nephew Jack Brown on Prineville, Oregon, nieces Elaine Fultz of Troutdale, Oregon, and Charlot Ehrler of Levittown, Pennsylvania, fourteen grand nieces and nephews, thirty-two great grand nieces and nephews, six great-great nieces and nephews.

    

Her long bout with cancer took her life on March 7, 2011 and her memorial will be held Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 11:00 AM at the United Methodist Church in Hay Springs, Nebraska with dinner following the service. Honorary Pallbearers include: Jack Brown, Richard Ehrler III, Alan Ferrel, Wayne Fisher, Scott Fultz, Lee Garrett, and Jack Heesacker.

    

What better way to remember Mary Ann than every time you look at a lovely iris, admire a majestic tree, or spot a hummingbird in your garden; just ask yourself, could this be one of Mary Ann’s favorites.