Mother Lola

M. "Marilyn" Phillips

Mother Lola Mae Mack Phillips, a woman of unwavering faith and boundless love, was born on July 21, 1936, in Anderson, South Carolina. She was the cherished daughter of the late Rev. Booker T. Mack and Lola Mae Wardlaw Mack. She was educated in Anderson County School System, Mother Phillips graduated from Westside High School, and her journey of love and adventure soon led her to Boston, Massachusetts. It was in Boston, while sitting outside one day, that Mother Phillips encountered the love of her life, the late Donald Howard Phillips, Sr., who was serving in the United Stated Air Force at the time. Initially introducing herself as Marilyn, Mother Phillips, affectionately became known Marilyn to family and friends. The two embarked on a lifelong journey of love and commitment as they exchanged vows on January 5, 1955. Together, they were blessed with three children.

Following various relocations, Mother Phillips and her family settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, until 1973, when they decided to make Georgia their home. Throughout her life, Mother Phillips held various positions, including working at Snellenburg's Department Store and United News, Inc. However, she prioritized caring for her beloved husband, Elder Phillips, and resigned from her career at General Motors Corporation.

On May 9, 1969, Mother Phillips experienced a transformative moment when she was baptized in Jesus' names and filled with the gift of the Holy Ghost at Faith Assembly Apostolic Church in Philadelphia. In Atlanta, she continued her worship journey at Emmanuel Temple Holiness Church, where she also served as the Church Secretary for many years. On May 27, 1979, alongside Elder Donald Phillips, Sr., Mother Phillips founded the Will of God Apostolic Church in Griffin, Georgia, becoming a remarkable First lady and Church Mother until her health began to decline.

Mother Phillips possessed a deep love for studying the bible, often taking detailed noted to enrich her spiritual understanding. Her culinary skills were legendary, and she delighted in preparing meals for her family. With impeccable fashion sense, she always dressed elegantly and enjoyed indulging in shopping trips. Despite her role as the primary caregiver for her family, Mother Phillips managed to stay abreast of the latest fashion trends while maintaining a spotless home.

On Friday, May 26, 2023, at the age of 86, Mother Los M Phillips answered the call of the Lord, departing this life peacefully. She was preceded in death by her husband Elder Donald Phillips; parents Rev. Booker T. and Lola Mae Wardlaw, and her siblings, Booker, Robbie, Alexander, Moses, Marion, and Sarah Louise.

Mother Lola Mack Phillips leave behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be cherished forever. She is survived by her three children, Donald Phillips, Jr., Dwayne (Betty) Phillips, and Dawn Phillips; grandchildren, Ieshia Willis, Jonah (Liza) Phillips, Shantiqua (Eugen) Hodges, Dwan (Lester) Gilbert, Dena (Calmour) Henry, and Brandon Phillips; 12 great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Burden's Funeral Home. A Home Going Celebration will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Will of God Apostolic Church located at 1034 N 2nd Street. The body will lie in state at the Church one hour prior to the service hour. Interment will follow in Westwood Gardens Cemetery. District Elder Dwayne G. Phillips (her son) is the Pastor of Will of God and the Eulogist. "There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone, the light remains". Please continue to keep the entire family in your prayers.