Irene Ray Phillips, 85, of Weaverville, drifted peacefully into heaven in the early morning hours at her residence on August 21, 2021. Irene was born on July 27, 1936, in Flag Pond, TN. She was the daughter of the late Venus and Lela Hensley Ray. Irene was married to the late Glenn Everette Phillips for 49 years. She was preceded in death by her two sisters Ava Brown, Lillie Howard and son-in-law Les Clark. Irene retired as an inspector from Mills Manufacturing. She was a long-time member of Mt Bethel Freewill Baptist Church.

Surviving are her children; Annette Shook (Gary) of Fairview; Kenny Phillips and Kathy Thomas (Lawrence) of Weaverville; Sandy Clark of Candler; grandchildren Lance and Vanessa Thomas, Cory Ballew, and Cason Clark; great grandson Tre' Ballew; brother Ronnie Ray and his wife June of Newport News, VA; nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, neighbors and special friend Paul Bailey of Mars Hill.

Our Mama, Mammaw, Nana, and Grandnana, was most precious to us. She was a source of strength, courage and an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be missed tremendously by her family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00PM Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at Mt Bethel Freewill Baptist Church, 290 Sheppard Branch Road, Weaverville. Her Pastor Mike Thomas will officiate. The family will receive friends 3 – 4:00PM prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will include Grover Thomas, Ron Ballew Jr, Lance Thomas, Cory Ballew, Cason Clark, and Tre' Ballew.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org