Rita Mae Phillips

Rita Mae Phillips was born May 18, 1948 in Chestertown, MD to the late Sylvia Harris Commodore and Arvell Andrew Thomas Sr. Rita attended Henry Highland Garnet High School where she graduated in1967. Rita worked for Campbell Soup Company then went on to work for Washington College for over 30 years where she retired.

Rita joined Emmanuel United Methodist Church at an early age where she was a faithful member. She sang on several choirs: Souls of Faith, Senior Choir, Chancellor Choir, and the 100 Voices. Rita was also a member of the United Methodist Women. Her favorite hymn was “Yes, God is Real”. Rita enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, dancing, shopping, and going to yard sales. She also loved watching television, two of her favorite shows were “I love Lucy” and “The Young and the Restless”.

Rita was proceeded in death by her parents, Sylvia Harris Commodore (Mother), Stanley Commodore Sr. (Stepfather), Arvell Andrew Thomas Sr (Father), Louise Scott Thomas (Stepmother). her grandparents, Thomas and Dorothy Harris, her brother David Commodore Jr., beloved sister Karen Wilson and nephew Joaquin Wilson, her beloved grandson, Isaiah Lavontae Phillips.

Rita leaves to cherish her memory her son, Hubert Phillips Jr. and fiancé Joanne King of Ridgely, MD. three granddaughters; Kimika Goudeaux of New Castel, DE, Briona Phillips, of Easton MD, Kaniya Phillips, of Harrington DE, great granddaughter, Camilya Forde of New Castle, DE, a special great niece, Essence Commodore.

Rita also leaves to cherish her memory four sisters: Phyllis (Steven) Barnes, of Chestertown MD, Marilyn (Harry) Black, of Chestertown, MD, Gloria Thomas, of Philadelphia, PA, Gabrielle Thomas, of Newark DE, one brother, Arvell Thomas Jr. of Rock Hall MD, one sister-in-law, Donnette Commodore, of Chestertown, MD, a favorite uncle Bernard Harris of Chestertown, MD and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Lovingly submitted,
The Family

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