Sheila Faye Phillips, 57, of Arlington, Kentucky, passed away on May 3, 2026, at her residence surrounded by her family.
Sheila was the heart of a large, close-knit family, sharing an unbreakable bond with her sisters. Their days were filled with laughter, traveling together, and singing along to their favorite gospel and country songs—often turning moments into joyful karaoke sessions and lifelong memories. Sheila and her sister Geneva, especially loved spending time together playing Super Mario Brothers, a pastime that brought them endless laughter and comfort. Known as the glue of her family, Sheila held everyone together with her kindness, laughter, and unwavering support. She loved to dance, sing, and bring joy into every room she entered.
A woman of quiet strength and tireless devotion, Sheila found peace in life’s simple pleasures. She loved to sit in the sun to tan, tend to her garden, or take a ride, sometimes even on her Harley. One of her favorite places to be was by the river, where she could sit, reflect, and watch the world go by.
Sheila had a special gift when it came to children. With her soft voice and gentle presence, she had a way of connecting with them, guiding them, and making them feel safe and understood. Her love for children was reflected not only in how she cared for so many, but also in the life she chose to give, by saving her daughter as an infant and later adopting her. That same deep, unconditional love carried through every part of her life and was most evident in the way she raised her granddaughter, Kloe, from infancy, who was truly the light of her life.
Sheila is survived by the love of her life, Galen Phillips; her daughter, Alexis Phillips (Jerry West) of Bardwell; two sons, Branden Phillips of Mayfield and Justin Phillips (Sherri Holder) of Mayfield; seven sisters, Patricia (Gene) Guthrie of Michigan, Rita (Mike) Goff of Arlington, Gayenell Rogers (Jeff Gorham) of Arlington, Margaret McGary of Oklahoma, Billie Jo Arrington of Arlington, Sandy Slayden of Arlington, and Geneva Smith (Michael Tucker) of Arlington; one brother, Charles E Arrington Jr. of Arlington; three grandchildren, Kloe Phillips, Jerry West Jr., and Parker Phillips, along with one on the way; and her numerous nieces and nephews who were more like her children.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles E Arrington Sr. and Josephine Arrington.
There will be no services at this time.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of a donation to: Ronald McDonald House Charities Inc. 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL, 60673-1263 or online at www.rmhc.org/donate.
You may leave a message for the family or light a candle at www.milnerandorr.com.
