Marian Culver Phillips of Westhampton Dies August 2

Marian Culver Phillips of Westhampton died peacefully of natural causes on August 2. She was 106.

Her remarkable life journey came to an end, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and a profound impact on countless lives, her family said.

She was born on October 12, 1917, and raised along with her five siblings and many cousins on Baycrest Avenue in Westhampton, also known as “Culver Town.” She was the last of the Culver Town kids from her generation.

She graduated from Westhampton Beach High School and pursued her passion for teaching by earning a degree in education at Geneseo College. In 1938, she began her illustrious career at the Quogue School, where she taught second grade for over 20 years.

She loved to read and write funny tales. She was especially proud of teaching her second-graders how to read, which was passed on to her great-grandchildren, with their annual trips to the book store. Her dedication to her students and her commitment to nurturing young minds left an indelible mark on the community.

In 1939, she married her high school sweetheart, Howard Phillips. Together, they built a loving family, raising three sons: Ward (Maureen, deceased) of West Virginia; Bruce (Elaine) of Westhampton; and John (Francie) of Westhampton. Her family continued to grow, blessing her with seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, all of whom brought immense happiness to her life. She was the guiding light for her family, providing wisdom, love, laughter, and unwavering support, her family said.

In addition, she had a generous spirit, which brought so much happiness and comfort to so many people. She took great joy in shopping and would find the perfect gift and somehow always spotted the latest trends, even before they were trends. This was particularly evident during the Christmas season, when she would shop for the Adopt-A-Family program, ensuring that less fortunate families could experience the magic and warmth of the holiday season.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many students whose lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Sunday, August 25, from 2–4 p.m., with a service at 3 p.m., at the Werner-Rothwell Funeral Home in Westhampton Beach.