Obituary of Martha Sue Phillips

Martha Sue Phillips, 101, of Charlotte, North Carolina, went home to the Lord on February 28, 2023. Born July 3, 1921, in Stony Point, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late James Augustus and Euphia Milholland Hager.

Martha graduated from Central High School and Mitchell College in Statesville, NC. She worked in the medical field for 12 years and she retired from the Small Business Administration after 22 years. But more than anything, she loved her family and friends.

Martha was one of a kind. She was loving, generous, and sassy! She loved to sing and recall memories of good times, especially with her grandchildren. They gave her such joy! Back in the day, Martha was quite a catch. She said her favorite hobby was dating, and she caught the right man!

Meticulous in everything she did, Martha had a servant’s heart. Visiting those that needed company or comfort, she would take them food, a smile, and a prayer. Martha never knew a stranger. Her arms were open wide for anyone who wanted love. She demonstrated that love as a member of Jackson Park and Mulberry Baptist Church. Martha loved Jesus and shared her love for him with others. Wherever she met them.

On her 100th birthday, Martha couldn’t believe that so many people came to her drive-by/walk-up party! Family and friends poured on the love, and she had a terrific day. She enjoyed the celebration by eating, especially the cakes, singing, and talking with those she hadn’t seen in years. She wrapped it up by singing everyone a medley about Jesus, with her dear friend Launiu. It was a day she talked about for years.

Martha is survived by her son David Phillips, and wife Melissa of Waxhaw, NC; her daughter, Dawn Sears of Charlotte, NC; five grandchildren, Jessie David Phillips, Amanda Phillips and husband Bill Currie, and Brittany Keziah, Tommy and Sam Sears; two great-granddaughters, Scarlette Phillips and Kennedi Keziah.

In addition to her parents, Martha is preceded in death by her loving husband David of 47 years; her brothers Harry Hager and wife Ruth, Don Hager and wife Deane, and sister, Lucy Carico and husband Woodrow.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, at Evergreen Cemetery, located at 4426 Central Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28205.

We appreciate and express gratitude for the loving care that Martha received throughout the years. Dr. Murray Craven gave her attention and great care. Martha had a special bond with her dear friend and companion, Launiu Goode, who sang with her and read through the Bible with her twice. They had the voices of angels! We are grateful for Seini Draughn, who gave her tender, loving care with such grace. And we appreciate the kindness, care, and love she received from Rhonda Gordon, Janet Glover, Saundra Scott, Melba Tiffany, the folks at Hospice and Palliative of Charlotte, Cornerstone Caregiving, and so many others at Ofa’s Private Home Care Services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Martha's name to Mulberry Baptist Church. 6450 Tuckaseegee Rd. Charlotte, NC 28214.

Online condolences may be made via the Tribute Wall provided.