Ms. Janice J. Phillips

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." (Psalm 116:15) Janice Julia Phillips began her earthly journey in Johnson City, TN, on October 9, 1940. She was the first born to William R. Phillips Sr. and Aquila Phillips. She briefly attended Johnson City Public Schools before her family moved to Coconut Grove, Florida. After graduating from George Washington Carver High School, Janice attended Dillard University, an HBCU in New Orleans, LA. When she left New Orleans, she relocated to East Orange, New Jersey. She was employed at Exxon Oil Company as a clerk in the mail room. She worked her way up and went from the mail room to the board room. Janice traveled throughout the country as an Executive Secretary for Exxon-Mobile until she retired in 2000. Upon retirement, she moved back to Johnson City to be with her family. Janice became a member of Thankful Baptist Church, where her grandfather, Reverend John Lee Folston, was once a pastor. As a faithful and devoted member, she served in several leadership and administrative roles. She was the Administrative Secretary to former Pastor C. Danny Johnson and served as church clerk. She was an active member of The Women of Thankful and the Baptist Women's Association and was awarded Woman of the Year in 2007. She was the Co-Director of Powerful Expressions of Praise (PEP). She was active in Sunday School, Bible Study, and Vacation Bible School. She provided invaluable service to the Bethel District Association, having served as Assistant Secretary and Administrative Secretary. Janice was always a willing servant to be used by God in whatever capacity she was needed. In accordance with God's will, on April 17, 2024, Janice was called from labor to reward by our Heavenly Father, who welcomed her with open arms. Janice was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Linda Russaw and Freda Phillips. Janice's indelible Spirit will forever be in the hearts of her dear brothers, William "Bobby" (June) Phillips Jr. and Carl Franklin Phillips, and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, family members, friends, and her church Family. The family wishes to express Heartfelt Thanks to Thankful Baptist Church.