Verla Phillips

June 19, 1935 - May 4, 2025

In Loving Memory of Verla Mae Phillips Verla Mae Phillips passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, in Elk Grove, California, at the age of 89. Born on June 19, 1935, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Verla moved with her family to California at the age of three. She grew up in Bakersfield and graduated from East Bakersfield High School in 1953, later earning her degree from Fresno State in 1959—a milestone that marked the beginning of a long and impactful career in education. For 40 years, Verla taught fourth grade at Hort Elementary School in Bakersfield. Her sensible, no-nonsense approach in the classroom earned respect and admiration from students and colleagues alike. She brought structure, intelligence, and a deep commitment to her work, believing in high standards and the transformative power of learning. Verla was also a dedicated advocate for public education, active for many years in the California Teachers Association. Verla had a fierce independent streak and a love of challenge that led her to distance running and cycling. In the 1980s, she was deeply involved with the Bakersfield Track Club, where she didn’t just compete—she organized events too. She completed eight marathons, countless half marathons, 10Ks, 5Ks, and fun runs, and conquered two century bicycle rides. She was someone who didn’t shy away from effort; she met it head-on, with quiet resolve. Sports played a huge role in Verla’s life. She was a devoted Dodgers fan from the age of nine and was overjoyed when the team moved to Los Angeles in 1958. Another love was the Los Angeles Lakers. Imagine her delight in 1988 and 2020 when the Dodgers won the World Series and the Lakers won the NBA Title. She also had a love of the open road. With her husband Eugene, Verla traveled all over the United States in their RV —always preferring the back roads to the highways, always curious about the towns and stories along the way. One of their favorite places was their vacation home in San Felipe, Baja Mexico, a coastal retreat that brought them joy and rest. Verla adored animals and supported a number of charities close to her heart, including the SPCA and Heifer International. She didn’t just talk about compassion—she lived it through action and contribution. She was married to Eugene Phillips for 51 years until his passing in 2004. Together, they raised three children: Andrea MacDonald (husband William), Michael Phillips (wife Susie), and Lisa Line. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Catherine Christian, Jacob Line, Cameron Line, and Eric Mayhew; and her great-grandchildren, Corinne Christian, Isabelle Christian, Jasen Line, Lilli Line, Logan Line, and Blake Line. Verla lived life with clarity and purpose. She was strong, intelligent, and independent—a woman who expected much of herself and others, and who gave generously to the people and causes she cared about. She will be deeply missed and remembered with admiration and love. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Heifer International or Club Las Amigas San Felipe in Verla’s memory.