Pamela Jo Phillippe

Pamela Jo Phillippe, 71, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away unexpectedly on May 20, 2022, at Willow Manor in Vincennes, IN. She was born October 30, 1950, in Robinson, IL, the daughter of Clay L. & Lola M. (Bonesteel) Rich. She grew up in the Robinson area and was a 1968 graduate of Robinson High School. She married Frank K. Phillippe on August 1, 1969, and to this union were born four children: Laura, Jeff, Tamara, and Angela. In addition to the work she did on the family farm, Pam helped support her family through the Robinson IGA, where her culinary and creative giftings allowed her to decorate countless cakes over her 25 years there. Her professional career ended at the Crawford County Assessor's Office, where she worked as a clerk before retiring to spend more time with family.

Throughout her 71 years, Pam made it clear that she loved her family more than life itself. She was her loved ones' biggest cheerleader; (just ask anyone who found themselves within earshot at their various ballgames!) She had a history of playing ball herself, and her talent was unmistakable throughout her years playing on the Norm's Aces softball team. Her love of sport never dwindled, as Sundays often found her glued to her television, cheering on NASCAR drivers like Jeff Gordon and Kyle Larson. In fact, for a number of years, the Phillippes made the trek to Bristol, TN, where they would set up camp before watching the big race. Back home, Pam could often be found outside, be that landscaping or tending to their vegetable garden. Few things brought her more joy than watching hummingbirds come to her feeders, and she also made sure that her dogs were well-fed!

Music played an important role in Pam's life. A skillful pianist, she lent her talents to several weddings over the years. She also possessed a beautiful singing voice that was the hit of many a karaoke night. Though her song has ended, we are thankful that her melody lingers on in our hearts. Her infectious laugh will continue to resonate within us, reminding us that life is what you make it. We find peace in knowing that Pam Phillippe made hers a good one.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 53 years, Frank Phillippe. She is also survived by their children, Laura Phillippe, Jeff Phillippe, Tamara Dompe, and Angela Ferguson; by five grandchildren, Savanah Phillippe, Maddelyn Byrley, Jacob Ferguson, Katelynn Ferguson, and Whitney Gullett; by her great-grandchildren, Hayden and Raelynn (and one on the way); by her sister & brother-in-law, Phyllis & Mike McCammon; by her brother & sister-in-law, Brian & Marsha Rich (Robinson, IL); by several nieces and nephews; as well as her beloved canine companions, Bella and Lilly. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her daughter-in-law, Robin (Richardson) Phillippe.

A time of visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. Services will immediately follow and will be held at 3:00 p.m. with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. During the service, friends and family will have the opportunity to share memories of this dear woman's life. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available on Goodwine Funeral Homes' Facebook page or by visiting www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Jones Cemetery, rural Flat Rock. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Palestine Food Pantry", with envelopes available at the funeral home.