Mother Katie Mae Phillips

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 2nd Timothy 4:7-8

Mother Katie Mae Phillips, 92, of Benton Harbor, MI was called home to Glory on Monday, March 23, 2026. 

Katie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, and a devoted follower of Christ.

Katie was born in Nesbit, Mississippi, in 1933. At an early age, she gave her life to Christ, beginning a lifelong journey of faith that would guide her every step.

In 1948, Katie moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan, with her parents, the late Joe L. Smith and Pearl Smith. After relocating, she joined Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Daniel E. Cook. With the guidance of her mother and the mentorship of Mother Canary Cook, Katie grew deeply in her faith and became a dedicated servant in the church. She was actively involved in many ministries, including the Sunshine Band, the Red Circle, and the Prayer Band. Katie served as Choir Director of the Golden Light Missionary Baptist Choir and as Assistant President. One of her greatest joys was directing church plays that she wrote for the congregation. She was known as a soloist and sang with the Revelation group and several others throughout the years. Mother Phillips was a member of Fellowship Baptist Mission Church under the leadership of Pastor Wiliam Whitfield. Later in life, Mother Phillips joined The Ark of the Covenant Church under the leadership of Rev. Roy Askew, where she continued to serve faithfully as a church mother and devoted member until her health would no longer allow her to serve.

Katie worked for many years with the Benton Harbor School District until her retirement, impacting countless lives through her service.

Mother Phillips was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 43 years, Ernest “Phil” Phillips; her parents, Joe and Pearl Smith; her daughters, Virginia (Bunch) Beatty and RoseElla Terry; and her son, Jerry (Bubba) Phillips.

She leaves to cherish her memory to her daughters, Alberta (Al) Brown of South Bend, Indiana, and Shirley Ann Phillips of Benton Harbor, Michigan; her sons, Andrew (Mira) Jackson of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Dale (WillieMae) Jackson of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Ernest Phillips Jr. (Hope) of Benton Harbor, Michigan; Kinney (Debra) Phillips of South Bend, Indiana; and Robert Phillips of Benton Harbor, Michigan; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. We also want to give a special mention to the following: Alvin (grandson), Roshonta (grand-daughter) and her son, Rodney (great-great-grandson), along with Sheree (grand-daughter), who remained near her side to the very end.

Katie Phillips lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service. Her legacy will continue to shine through all who knew and loved her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23 (NKJV)

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