LEWISTON – Elizabeth “Betty” Esther Phillips passed away on May 20, 2023 with her entire family by her side after a brief illness.

She was born Feb. 10, 1944 in Somerville, Mass. to Ruth Elizabeth Witham and Joseph Francis Murphy. Betty and her family experienced some trials but eventually moved to Bridgton, to be closer to family, where they enjoyed many happy childhood memories. The Murphy children especially loved their time on the cousin Packards’ farm. In Bridgton, she bonded with her lifetime best friend, Donna B. Ruiz.

Betty graduated from Turkey Creek High School in Plant City, Fla. She saw much of the United States while raising her older children, then moved to New Hampshire where she married Terrance “Terry” Michael Phillips in 1974. Together they raised their four children in Gardiner.

Betty worked in retail and then found her life purpose, as a compassionate caregiver for the elderly in her field as a PCA. Her clients were like family to Betty. After they retired, Betty and Terry moved to Bridgton where they loved being active and volunteering in community activities. She became involved in the Unitarian Universalist Church in Norway and the Bridgton Community Center.

Betty’s life was filled with loving, giving, and many special interests. She was an avid birdwatcher, gardener, bargain shopper, and artist. Betty treasured all wildlife and animals. She loved music and all of nature. Most of all, she poured her life and love into her family and friends.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband, Terry, who showered her with loving care in her final years. She is also survived by brother, Robert Paul Murphy, his wife Cindy Murphy, brother, Kenneth Murphy; and her children Joseph Healey and wife Sarah, Jacob Phillips and wife Michelle, Marjorie Childs and husband Wilson, daughter Margaret Hunter and husband Michael. Betty cherished her 13 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for her at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

Her funeral service is planned for 1 p.m. on Friday, May 26 at the Chandler Funeral Home at 8 Elm St., Bridgton. There will be a Celebration of Life at the Bridgton Community Center (open house from 2-4 p.m.). The burial service will be held on Saturday, May 27 at 10 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Augusta. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.chandlerfunerals.com.

In lieu of flowers, gifts to the Bridgton Community Center would be appreciated by Betty and the family.