Darlene Philips, 70, of Washington, passed away at home on Friday, November 29, 2024.

She was born March 4, 1954 in Louisville, KY to the late Joseph G. and Mary Rita McCauley Mattingly. She married John L. Philips on February 1, 1975 in Lexington; he preceded her in death on March 17, 2017.

She is survived be her children, Eric (Jessica) Philips and Melissa Philips; her grandkids, Parker and Emerson; her siblings, Janice Ehle (Tim), Jim Mattingly, Jean Fugate (Tom), Connie White (Joe), and Sue Davis; and her many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Mark Mattingly.

To say Darlene was a social butterfly would be an understatement. She loved anything that brought people together to visit, from a book club to a lunch group. She enjoyed an active retirement, especially traveling and taking cruises with friends and family. As an active member of First English Lutheran Church, she wholeheartedly served with her time and talents. Her skill as seamstress, cook, baker, and crafter was second to none. She will be remembered for her hospitality, kindness, and outgoing personality; her sweet spirit will be deeply missed.

Her family will receive friends from 5-7:00pm Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. A service to honor her life will be held at 11:00am Friday, December 6, 2024 at First English Lutheran Church in Peoria. Pastor Ryan Anderson will officiate. Private inurnment will be Glendale Cemetery in Washington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Illinois Food Bank.