Ellen (Haygood) Phillips

Phillips, Ellen Haygood, 73 of Ringgold, GA, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, January 15, 2021, due to COVID-19.

Born Greenville, AL, she received a BS degree from Troy (AL) University, a Masters degree from Auburn University, and a Post-Masters degree from the University of Virginia. After teaching a decade in AL, Ellen then taught English, speech and theatre arts and, subsequently, retired from Fairfax County, VA. Ellen was honored with a number of awards, including Fairfax County Outstanding Educator; finalist, VA Speech Teacher of the Year, Who's Who in American Education, Who's Who of America, and the esteemed Marquis Who's Who Publications Board's Commendation. A consumer advocate/expert who advised individuals, organizations, and businesses across the country, Phillips authored two consumer books and was featured on national television, radio, and in national newspapers and magazines.

Following retirement, Phillips and husband Bruce moved to Ooltewah, TN where she also by-lined the "Consumer Watch," column that originated with the Chattanooga Times Free Press. She was active in the Ringgold United Methodist Church, several bridge groups, the Scenic City Chorale, and held various offices within the Chattanooga Newcomers Club. Phillips' activities and hobbies included bridge, writing, reading, and making happy memories with family and friends.

Ellen's contagious sense of humor, joy in living, and love of family and friends will long remain in everyone's memory.

Ellen was predeceased by parents, Lucy and Eddie Haygood; brother, Joe Haygood; and beloved grandson, Tyler Jeffries.

She is survived by her best friend and beloved husband of 39 years, Bruce Harrison Phillips; daughter, Katherine Elizabeth (Stewart) Cook; grandchildren, Ellen Elizabeth (Ellie) Jeffries, Cody and Tallon Runkles, twins Kai and Jaydon Cook; Sister and second "bestie", Nan Haygood; and sister-in-law, Jean Haygood.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be offered to The Autism Society, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Memorial services will be held at 11 AM Saturday, May 15, 2021, at the the Ringgold United Methodist Church, 7484 Nashville Street, Ringgold, GA 30736, with the Rev. Chris Bryant and Gary Knowles officiating.  The service can be viewed by livestream at ringgoldumctv.org. 

Please visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share words of comfort to the family.

Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.