Arnola "Nonie" Phillips

Arnola Phillips, affectionately known as "Nonie," passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health System Olathe Campus. Born Arnola Woods on February 21, 1944, in Baxter Springs, Kansas, she cherished her roots and the community that shaped her early years.

Arnola attended school in Baxter Springs, where she laid the foundation for a life characterized by warmth, dedication, and hard work. Throughout her working years, she embraced a variety of roles, most notably spending much of her career as a clerk at True Value. Later, she extended her nurturing spirit by working in the cafeterias of both the Louisburg and Blue Valley School Districts, contributing quietly but meaningfully to the daily lives of countless students.

On October 3, 1960, Arnola married Bill Phillips, embarking on a lifelong partnership marked by love, adventure, and companionship. Together, they shared a passion for traveling in their RV, enjoying fishing and camping along the way. Their time as Winter Texans became a treasured chapter in their shared story, reflecting a zest for life and the outdoors that Arnola embodied.

Arnola was an active member of the Iota Eta Sorority, a community that provided friendship and fellowship throughout her life. Her commitment to those bonds mirrored the value she placed on relationships with family and friends.

Above all, Arnola found joy in her family. She delighted in spending time with her children: Janell (David) Hook, Billie Phillips, Elayna (Harry) Yeager, and James (Judy) Phillips. She was a beloved grandmother to 14 grandchildren and a cherished great-grandmother to numerous great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings include her brother, Butch Woods, and her sisters, Brenda Monohon and Becky Rantz, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who remain part of her enduring legacy.

Arnola was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mildred (Pierce) Woods; her husband, Bill Phillips; brothers Jay, Jack, Gene, and Steven Woods; and sisters Maybelle Nelson, Wanda Hensley, Jo Jones, and Margaret Woods.

Visitation will be held at 10 am, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Louisburg United Methodist Church, 249 N Metcalf Rd, Louisburg, Kansas 66053. Memorial service will follow at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the American Heart Association, c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, P.O. Box 669, Louisburg, KS 66053.

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