Genevieve (Jean) R. Phillips age 90 passed away on June 12, 2023. Jean was born in Philadelphia, to the late Charles and Genevieve (Stinger) Kalesse. Jean was the eldest of 4 children. She is a graduate of Hallahan Catholic High School for Girls (1951). Jean was employed by the State of Pennsylvania for many years as an Unemployment Counselor, and then enjoyed retirement at an early age.
Jean was a member of St Ann’s parish in Philadelphia for many years before moving to St Bartholomew’s parish with her only son, Thomas: her true pride and joy. Jean was very active in the church, and served as a Eucharistic Minister. She would also take communion to the sick and homebound of the parish. Jean was a devout Catholic. She raised her son in the Catholic faith, ensuring he received the Sacraments, attended Mass, and lived a good moral life. She loved weekend Catholic retreats with her mother and sisters to the Dominican Retreat House in Elkins Park, PA. She had a lead role, serving as a “Promoter” for the annual September retreat. Jean met the love of her life, Edward Phillips in 1972. Ed brought so much joy and excitement to the relationship. They enjoyed many activities together, but especially going dancing on Saturday nights. Jean absolutely loved “date nights” and was always impeccably dressed! Her bright red lipstick and beautiful long red nails complimented her dazzling and outgoing personality. Ed and Jean also enjoyed taking bus trips to the Atlantic City Casinos, and feeding quarters into the slot machines. The two enjoyed the Pocono Mountains and trips to the Jersey shore. Sunday mornings were devoted to early Mass, followed by listening to Frank Sinatra on the radio for hours. After a very long courtship, Jean and Ed finally married, November 6, 1981. In their retirement years Jean and Ed relocated to Rehoboth Beach DE. They established many new close friendships. Jean especially was very social! She joined the “Red Hat Society” and absolutely loved the gatherings and exciting experiences with other women in the local Chapter. Jean also joined the “Barbecuties” where along with the others, she danced and sang, and entertained at parties and gatherings.
Jean (“granny-pants”) absolutely adored her three grandchildren, Thomas, Lisa and Lauryn. Summers were filled with days spent at the beach, followed by Grotto pizza (and popcorn), and then card games: Canasta or Go Fish, for hours!! The Rehoboth house was always an open-door. Jean’s brother Bob, and his sisters Pat and Peg would visit often with their families. To her many nieces and nephews, Aunt Jean was the greatest! Her warmth and kindness, and of course her dazzle, endeared her to them.
In her later years, and after Ed’s passing, Jean moved to Foulk Living Senior Community where she received excellent care, made new friendships, and played lots and lots of Bingo! All the while, impeccably dressed, bedazzled, and with those bright red nails.
Jean is survived by her son Thomas J Moffa (Carolyn), and her three grandchildren, Thomas C Moffa, Lisa Moffa and Lauryn Moffa, her brother Robert Kalesse Sr (Terrie), her sister Patricia Buchanan (Norm, deceased)and many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews. Jean is predeceased by her husband Edward Phillips, and her sister Margaret Grindle (William, deceased).
A viewing will be held on Monday, June 19, 2023 from 10:00-12:00 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 4701 Weldin Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The American Lung Association at lung.org. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
