Life’s Reflections
ovella Rachael Phillips, affectionately known as “Vel,” was born on April 26, 1976. Novella was the cherished daughter of the late Bobby and Patricia Phillips and the beloved second-born of four siblings.
Novella was raised in the nurturing community of Palestine A.M.E. Church, later embracing the Baptist faith at Mt. Herman M.B. Church. Her formative years were marked by a love for athletics, exemplified by her time as a track runner for Raleigh Central while attending Scenic Hill Elementary School. She continued her education at Raleigh Egypt High School, graduating with the Class of 1995. Driven by her passion for beauty and creativity, Novella pursued cosmetology and proudly earned her license from the Empire Beauty School.
Novella Phillips departed this life on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 48. A woman of many talents and a warm heart, Novella found joy in cooking, traveling, and nurturing deep, meaningful relationships with her family and friends. Her kind, loving spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
Novella’s memory will be lovingly cherished by her husband, Freddie Lee Hill; her daughters, Maria Phillips and Patricia Hill; her two sons, Artheriio Phillips and MacFred Hill; and her treasured grandson, Ky’zeir Hill. She also leaves behind her three sisters, Gigi (Derrick) Phillips, Latoya Phillips, and Latia Chambers, three brothers, Bobby (Derek) Phillips, Jr., Joseph Phillips, and Zachary Johnson; her uncle, Lloyd (Mary) Phillips; her two aunts, Glenda Turner and Jacqueline Phillips, and a host of extended family and friends whose lives she touched.
Novella’s presence, love, and laughter will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Order of Celebration
Saturday, November 9, 2024
10:00 A.M.
Christ Missionary Baptist Church
494 S. Parkway East • Memphis, Tennessee 38106
Dr. Gina M. Stewart
Musical Prelude
Processional....................................................The Family of Novella Phillips
Pastor Christopher Williams
Scripture Readings:
Old & New Testament.....................................Minister Terrance Smith
Prayer.................................................................................Deacon Ryan Ealy
Musical Selection............................................................Vonyale Montgomery
Expressions of Love...................................................................Bobby Phillips
Words of Comfort...................................................................Dr. Chuck Lester
Musical Selection................................................Pastor Christopher Williams
Eulogy....................................................................................Dr. Gina Stewart
Committal
Recessional
Dear
Mama
Mama, thank you for doing all you could and being your best. We truly appreciate you for all you have done, which is being a great daughter, mother, sister, and aunt. You have done so well, and it is wild that we always thought we had more time, but this shows us that time is one thing we cannot control. I still have conversations in my head about us talking every morning. I just cannot let you go. You were my best friend, and I know everything will be OK because you said everything is OK. I hope you are OK and happy. Please watch over us, and let us keep feeling your spirit and seeing your smile. We love you, and we will always think of you.
Love, Maria Phillips
Aaron Phillips ~ Acknowledgements ~
The family of Mrs. Novella Rachael Phillips would like to acknowledge every gesture of kindness shown to us when we needed it the most. Your thoughtfulness, prayers, visits, cards, food and other expressions will always be appreciated. Your caring spirit will long be remembered in our hearts and may you have more of God’s special favor and wonderful peace
Bobby Phillips
Zazhery Johnson
Joseph Phillips
Derek L. Stanley
Garron Phillips
~The Family ~ Repast
The Residence of Bobby Phillips 6100 Broad Meadows Drive Millington, Tennessee 38053
Distinctive Services by ~ Active Pallbearers ~