Jeanne M. Phillips, age 75, passed away peacefully at Strong Memorial Hospital on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
Jeanne was born May 8, 1950 to Charles and Marie Phillips in Rochester, New York, and spent a happy childhood in Victor, New York. Jeanne attended Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York, where she earned a BA in Mathematics and made a grand tour of Europe with the Hartwick College Choir. After graduation, Jeanne returned to her beloved Victor, where she remained for the rest of her life. A skilled accountant with an MBA in Accounting and General Business from Rochester Institute of Technology, Jeanne spent the bulk of her career working at Frontier Communications in Rochester, New York.
People who know Jeanne know how much she loved music. On Sundays, Jeanne would sing in the First Presbyterian Church Choir in Victor. During the week, she would square dance. A talented seamstress, Jeanne made many of her own square dancing outfits.
Jeanne had deep family and religious ties to the community of Victor, and served as an ordained Deacon, Elder, Church Treasurer, and for a few years Administrative Assistant for First Presbyterian Church in Victor. She was always ready with a smile and a historical anecdote about Phillips family history or the town of Victor itself.
Jeanne fought a courageous battle with esophageal cancer and spent several months undergoing treatment at Thompson Hospital, Strong Memorial, and the Wilmot Cancer Center.
Jeanne is survived by two brothers, Charles (Joan) and David; nephew Paul (Liza), nieces Meg (Bryan) and Shala (Michael); several great-nieces, one great-nephew; and her best friend of forty years, Helen Zazzara.
She will be greatly missed.
A celebration of life will be held in the coming months at First Presbyterian Church in Victor, with Rev. Michael McNamara officiating. Burial will be in the Boughton Hill Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff at Thompson Hospital, Strong Memorial Hospital, the Wilmot Cancer Center, Penfield Place, and the Fairport Rehab and Nursing Center, as well as the countless local friends and family members who assisted Jeanne over these past few months for their care and support.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jeanne’s name to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.
I remember seeing Jeanne many times at our Presbyterian church. Jeanne had such a warm smile!! When I was young, I used to hope my mom and dad would oversleep so I didn’t have to go to church!! I miss seeing all those familiar faces. My deepest sympathy to her family. Carolyn Wolcott (Sharp)
Thank you, Carolyn. That is so kind of you to share with us. I also miss Jeanne’s warm smile. I hope you and your family are well.