LEWISTON — Phillis T. Philbrick passed away on Monday, April 10, 2017, at the age of 82. She died of natural causes and was surrounded by family when she passed at Russell Park Manor in Lewiston.

Born Feb. 26, 1935, in Sandy River Plantation, Phillis was the oldest daughter of William Thompson and Venus Haines. She grew up in Stratton, Bingham and Rangeley, and graduated from Rangeley High School in the Class of 1953.

She had five children with her husband, William Johnson – Laura, Billie Jo, Ginger, Bruce, and Tracie. Later in life she was proud to become a stepmother to Clayton Philbrick’s children, Donna, Diana, Clayton Junior, Fred, Karen, Stacey and Ralph, and she always thought of them as her own.

Phillis worked in many occupations throughout her life including waitress, hostess and cashier, but most people will remember her for her service as an administrative assistant at the Rangeley Chamber of Commerce. Phillis was dedicated to her children and grandchildren and was at every recital, game, competition and performance that she could attend.

In her retirement, she alternated between Maine and Arizona to be with her grandchildren and later great-grandchildren. She frequently had one or more grandchildren in tow.

Phillis was awarded her 50-year pin as a member of the Pythian Sisters. She helped found and was very active in the Rangeley Sports Boosters Club. She was an active member at the Church of the Good Shepherd. She was instrumental in starting up the Shriners Widow Club and they honored her annually with a lobster gathering. She dedicated many hours to providing rides and companionship to other members of the Rangeley community. In 2000, she was voted as Citizen of the Year by the Rangeley Chamber of Commerce.

Phillis moved to Russell Park Manor in April 2016 where she quickly became a favorite with residents and staff alike. She always had a smile and a laugh for everyone, even when she didn’t feel well. She could light up a room with her smile and she gave the best hugs.

She is survived by her daughters, Billie Jo Linnell, Ginger Penick and Tracie Clinch; and her son, Bruce Johnson; her stepchildren, Fred, Ralph, Karen, Donna, Diana and Stacey, and their families. She was always proud to tell you that she had 27 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Phillis was predeceased by her husbands, William Johnson and Clayton Philbrick; her brothers, Donald and Richard Thompson; her sister, Margaret Bockius; her children, Laura Wilcox and Clayton Jr.; and her grandson, Phillip Linnell.

Phillis T. Philbrick