Phyllis Jean Coles

Phyllis Jean Coles “Mama Phil” was born March 29, 1955, to Gib and Mary Coles in Beckley, West Virginia. The family relocated to Columbus, Ohio in early 1956 where they became residents of the American Addition neighborhood.

She attended Leonard Ave Elementary School for first grade and Brentnell Elementary School for second through sixth grade. She attended Everett Junior High School and graduated from Linden McKinley High School in 1974. After finishing high school, she went on to receive a certificate of data entry from Columbus College of Business and Technology. This certificate helped her secure employment with The Ohio State University where she was employed for 36.5 years until she retired.

She received Christ at a young age at Tray Lee Center after-school Bible study program. From there she became a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church where she joined the youth choir. She later joined Christ Memorial Missionary Baptist Church where she sang in choir and joined the bowling league. The joy of visiting churches led her to New Birth Christian Ministries where she was a member until her health declined.

Phyllis brought into this world two daughters, Tanisha and Rashida whom she loved very much and that love extended down to her grandchildren as well.

Phyllis was the true definition of a fighter, surviving breast cancer twice. She loved to sew, garden, visit the hair salon and bake which earned her the title of, “cake Lady.” She was an avid shopper whom you could find at any time at your local discount or hair store. She was known for picking up an item especially for “you.” If there was an item you were looking for and couldn’t find, she would find it for you. If you had a problem she would research the answer for you. If you were sick, she would bring you food and supplies. She was a huge fan of The Ohio State University football team and Lebron James. Her home was always open to everyone at any time free of charge. This earned her home the title of “Phil’s Place” and her the nickname of, “Mama Phil.” She loved her grandchildren so much whom she referred to as, “Grandma’s Babies” which resulted in the small family-owned vending machine business, “Grandma’s Babies Vending LLC.”

Phyllis was preceded in death by her grandparents Ollie and Ellen Dillard; parents, Gib and Mary Coles; brothers, Gilbert “Popeye” Coles, Gary “Speedy” Coles, Michael “Jiggy” Coles.

Phyllis leaves to cherish her memory, daughters Tanisha Neal, and Rashida Coles (Harold). Sisters, Shelia Lewis (Earl), and Annette Mayo (Adrian). Nephews, Edward Coles and Larry King. Nieces, Keisha Coles, Courtnei Jackson, Sade Coles, and Asia Coles. Granddaughter, Aniyah Maddox and grandson, Rashad Neal; as well as a host of other family members and friends.