Nancy Jean Phillips

Nancy Jean Phillips, born on February 12, 1936, in Toledo, Ohio, peacefully passed away on April 8, 2026, in her beloved hometown. A vibrant and outgoing soul, Nancy was truly a people person who cherished the connections she made throughout her life. Her radiant spirit, coupled with an unyielding love for family, friends, and community, leaves an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to know her.

Nancy's life was richly woven with cherished memories and joyful traditions. She held a deep affection for the beach, where many family trips were spent basking in the sun and sharing laughter. The cottage on Bird Lake in Michigan was a sanctuary for her—a place where friendships blossomed and countless happy moments were forged. Christmas was a particularly special time, filled with baking cookies, holiday celebrations, and an infectious enthusiasm that embraced the magic of the season. Birthdays, too, were never overlooked; Nancy loved celebrating life itself, savoring every joyful occasion with those closest to her. After becoming a widow Nancy relocated to the "Sunshine State" of Florida for over twenty years where she enjoyed making new friends and spending time in the sun.

An avid reader, Nancy devoured over 300 books a year, deeply enjoying her tablet which became her window to countless stories and adventures. When she wasn't indulging in her love for literature, she could often be found camping or watching heartwarming movies on the Hallmark Channel, quietly appreciating the simple pleasures of life.

Nancy's proudest accomplishments centered around her family and personal skills. She was a remarkably skilled typist, able to type over 100 words per minute a testament to her dedication and intelligence. Above all, she took immense pride in her four children and her beloved boxers, Rocky and Barron, who were much more than pets, but cherished companions and friends.

Her family, who remain a living testament to her enduring love and strength, includes her sons Marc Smith (and his wife Bonnie), Jeffrey Smith (and his wife Kelly), and her daughter Kimberly Davenport (and her husband Gene). Nancy also leaves behind a legacy carried on by her nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, whose lives she filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Phillips; her son Michael S. Smith; her parents, Dominic and Jeanette Zielinski; and her sisters, Delphine Sodd and Barbara Miller. Though gone, their memories are forever entwined with hers, forming the foundation of a family built on love and resilience.

Her passing will be mourned by many who appreciated her genuinely outgoing nature, her kindness, and the joy she spread so freely. To honor her life, a visitation with family will be held on April 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed immediately by a memorial service from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Newcomer Funeral Home, Northwest Toledo, located at 4150 W Laskey Road in Toledo, Ohio.

Nancy Jean Phillips lived life with an open heart and an exuberant spirit. Her laughter, compassion, and love of life will be dearly missed but forever remembered. She was, and will always be, deeply loved.