Joyce Phillips

Joyce Phillips, age 82, of Bolivar, passed away on Saturday morning, May 4, 2024, at Christian Care Center.  She was born in Covington, TN on Monday, March 2, 1942, to the late Angris Marshall Durham, Sr. and Cynthia McKee Durham.  

A 1960 graduate of Humes High School in Memphis, she moved to Hardeman County in 1970.  Mrs. Phillips owned and operated her own salon, Joyce's Beauty Shop, from 1971-1980 and, worked for the Hardeman County Sheriff's Department from 1980-1996 where she began as dispatcher.  She was promoted to records clerk and held that position until she left to become a probation officer with Correction Management Corporation in Whiteville.  

"Maw", as she was known by many, was a member of Abundant Life Christian Fellowship in Bolivar where she taught many young people in Sunday School.  She was also famous for her cooking.  So much so, the church even renamed their kitchen, "Maw's Kitchen", in her honor.  Mrs. Phillips hospitality was legendary.  She was always ready with a casserole or other dish to give to those who were sick or had lost a loved one.  She also opened her home to many people over the years who did not have a place to go for a meal - especially on Thanksgiving or Christmas. She had a unique way of making everyone feel special through her little acts of kindness.

She leaves her daughter, Angela Jones (Tim) of Bolivar; step-son, Ricky Phillips (Rhee) of Jackson; two sisters, Patricia Murphy of Memphis and Jackie Graves (David) of Jackson; two brothers, Billy Durham (Linda) of Burlison, TN and Rocky Durham of Garland, TN; a special nephew (whom she raised as a brother from age 22 months), Michael Durham of Memphis; four grandchildren, Anna Jones (Dillon), Jacob Jones (Colby), Emma Philips and Rachel Phillips; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by four sisters, Hazel Cardosi, Peggy Lopez, Janie Harris, and Martha Rice; and a brother, Angris Marshall Durham, Jr.

Memorials may be sent to Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, 15774 Highway 64 East, Bolivar, TN 38008.