Elizabeth Ellen Phillips

Elizabeth Ellen Phillips (formerly Sanders), age 84, went to be with the Lord on October 24, 2025. She was born August 25, 1941 in Princeton, West Virginia to the late Russell and Effie Hartwell. Throughout Ellen’s lifetime, she held various jobs, having worked at Mr. Donuts, was a housekeeper at Holiday Inn, at the YMCA in Lorain for 6 years where she met her husband of 35 years, Elmer Phillips and at Hill’s Department store in Amherst where she was a housekeeper. Ellen was a member of ‘Upon This Rock church’ in Lorain, previously ‘Fountain of Life’ and ‘Haven Church’ in Lorain where her son-in-law, Pastor DJ Murray and her sister Geneva Hedrick preached the Gospel. She always enjoyed worship and fellowship. She led Bible study and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Ellen truly loved her family, and she enjoyed family activities. She loved animals, especially her dog Ethan who she enjoyed cuddling with. Everywhere she went, people bragged about her smile, even when she was fighting the good fight at the hospital. She was loved by many and had a beautiful spirit. She is survived by her husband Elmer of Lorain and her sister Geneva Hedrick of Lorain, daughters: Geneva Amspaugh (Todd), Tina Sanders, Crystal Murray (Pastor DJ), Morissa St.Clair (Michael), Marsha St.Clair (Daniel) all of Lorain, son Glenn Sanders (Nohemi) of Phoenix, Arizona, grandchildren Robert Walter Jackson III “Bobby” and David St.Croix “DJ” both of Lorain, John St.Croix of North Olmsted, Brandon St.Croix of Vermilion, Ashley St.Clair, Michael St.Clair, Jessica Wright, Shannon St.Clair, all of Lorain and 18 great grandchildren, along with 2 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Russell and Effie Hartwell, brothers Lewis Hartwell, Elmer Hartwell, Thomas Hartwell, Melvin Hartwell, Albert Hartwell and sister Juanita Hartwell, grandson Michael Anthony Jackson, granddaughter Elaine Buschur, and son-in-law Jim Miller. The family will receive friends Monday November 3, 2025 from 10:00 am until the time of funeral services at 11:00 am at Upon This Rock Church, 1790 Reid Ave, Lorain. Pastor DJ Murray will preside. Burial will follow in Ridge Hill Memorial Park in Amherst Township.

Elizabeth Ellen Phillips

August 25, 1941 - October 24, 2025