Phyllis, also known as Philadelphia Anderson, was born March 7, 1932, in New Orleans (Algiers), Louisiana. She was the daughter of the late Ruth and Daniel Anderson and granddaughter of the late Mamie Antoine Anderson. Phyllis finished her secondary education in the Orleans Parish School district, graduating from L. B. Landry High School. She briefly attended Spelman College, worked for Xavier University momentarily, then the New Orleans Public Schools for 10 years followed by working approximately 20 years as a Legal Secretary. She finally retired from the Federal Government.

Throughout the years Phyllis was an avid traveler domestically and internationally. After leaving New Orleans, she lived in Los Angeles, CA, San Antonio, TX, Chicago, IL, Denver, CO, Dallas, TX, Pensacola, FL, Millington, TN, Detroit, MI, Angie, LA and finally Lancaster, TX. She also found time to visit Canada and Italy along the way.

Phyllis is survived by her only son Thomas (Phyllis) Celestine; grandchildren Shannon (Melvin) Celestine-Brown, Christian Daniel Celestine and Ikia (Pierre) Wilson; great- grandchild Gabriella Mae Wilson and family members Doris Guy Celestine and Ambris Guy.
Phyllis found peace and rest when God called her home Thursday, May 15, 2025, in Desoto, TX.