We will miss Dr. Jeannette Collier Phillips.

She was devoted to both Oxford and Ole Miss. She was devoted to her family. She was devoted to her church. She was devoted to her community.

At Ole Miss, Dr. Phillips impacted so many students for decades serving in most every capacity in the Department of Home Economics that her name was synonymous with the education experience for most.

The students respected her, and they loved her.

When Dr. Phillips took on the challenge of building the National Food Service Management Institute in 1991 on campus, she, of course, excelled, delivering what was hoped and more. And even during that busy time, she still made time for her church, for her family, and for her community.

Dr. Phillips took pride in The Oxford Eagle and her family’s ownership role in the newspaper, but she did it more as a cheerleader than anything else, respecting the roles of others. But everyone at the newspaper, just like everyone in the community, held her in the highest regard and appreciated her quiet wisdom, warm smiles and unwavering encouragement.

She was the rare, wonderful mix of a strong foundation and a warm friend.

Dr. Phillips was a pillar for both Oxford and Ole Miss, a woman who excelled in most every personal and professional category one can imagine.

And, she was simply a good and talented person up for a big challenge.

Dr. Phillips will be missed.