Barbara Coward Phillips, 88, of Siler City, was surrounded by her loved ones when she went home to be with the Lord on Friday Jan 30, 2026.

Barbara was born July 27, 1937, in Liberty NC to her late parents John and Ometer Ward Coward. She worked at Kellwood Hosiery for many years before finding her passion in working with children at Chatham Child Development Center as a Teacher Assistant and retired after 41 years. Beyond her work, Barbara’s life was centered on her faith, her family and her dear friends. She was a devoted and active member of First Wesleyan Church for over 60 years, where she found great joy in fellowship and service.

Barbara had a vibrant spirit and was lovingly called “The Queen” because she loved to be doted on and complimented. She never turned down a hug and would seek you out if she didn’t get one. She loved to tease friends and even strangers because she knew it would bring a smile to their face. It also brought her joy to cook her specialty dishes or no bake cookies for her friends and family. Other than her family and friends, her 2 favorite people were Elvis and John Cena. Her love for giraffes is evident if you have ever visited her.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Bill Phillips, her son Keith Phillips, her brothers Jimmy Coward, Fid Coward, Bill Coward, Charles Coward and her sisters Lee Pet York, Betty Beard, Louise Overman, Mildred Breedlove, and Marie Cox.

Left to cherish Barbara’s memories are her daughters, Deanna Jones of High Point, Sheila Carlberg (Daniel) of Holly Springs, Jennifer Phillips of Siler City; Daughter-in-Law Patty Phillips of Asheboro; grandchildren Leandra Parker (Jammi), Andrew Phillips (Corinne), Stephanie Phillips, Zoe Carlberg, Isaiah Roberson and great-grandchildren Landon, Jordan, Jaxon, Leanna, Becca and Hannah; several nieces and nephews and her many special friends who became family.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday Feb 7th at 1pm at First Wesleyan Church Siler City officiated by Pastor Don Southern and Pastor Dennis Boone.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Phillips family.

Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com