In memory of

Shirley Phillips

July 8, 1949 - November 26, 2024
From: Sac City, IA
Shirley Phillips

Shirley Phillips

Born: July 8, 1949
Died: November 26, 2024
Age: 75
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   Shirley Phillips, age 75 of Sac City, IA, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Loring Hospital in Sac City. Shirley Ann Williams was born on July 8, 1949, to parents Fred and Wilma (Davis) Williams in Lake City, IA. She grew up in Lytton, IA, where she attended school. Shirley graduated from Lytton High School with the class of 1967.
   On June 2, 1967, Shirley married Jerry Phillips at the Presbyterian Church in Lytton. They were blessed with two children, Bob and Stacy.
   Shirley was a go-getter who from the start, worked non-traditional female jobs. She managed the family’s farm implement dealership in Lytton most mornings and then headed to she and Jerry’s car sales and repair business every afternoon. Shirley also attended auctioneer’s school and became a Colonel. Needless to say, she was an excellent sales lady! She then worked for an accountant doing bookwork and taxes for businesses and people in a twelve-county area.
   In 1988, Shirley became the first Executive Director of Sac Economic and Tourism Development where she served for twenty-five years. She showcased the county in such a way that large businesses such as Evapco and VT Industries chose it to come to. Shirley was instrumental in securing, expanding and retaining industry, as well as assisting with many business start-ups. She worked tirelessly on developing attraction opportunities throughout the county and was extensively trained on the Iowa Main Street program. Shirley is well known for her role in making sure US Hwy 20 was completed as a four-lane route. Northwest Iowa was the largest area of the state without access to four-lane and she knew getting that completed meant economic diversity for all businesses along the corridor. The Hwy 20 project being completed was certainly one of her most notable accomplishments; she took great pride in it, as she should have, considering her dedication to it over a thirty-year span. She testified before the DOT Commission, met with legislators and the governor on many occasions, and traveled to Washington D.C. to rally for the cause, knowing that it would be a great asset for economic development in Sac County. On October 19, 2018, a ribbon cutting was held and Shirley was among those who spoke. Four-lane 20 across Iowa, was finally completed after the first three miles opened just east of Moville in 1958.
   Sac County benefitted greatly from Shirley’s commitment and knowledge of the county’s needs acquired through countless hours of work and contact with government and tourism officials. She lobbied for many causes at county, state, and national levels. Shirley set the stage for county coverage with an article in Family Circle magazine with the celebrated Meltdown, Shape Up & Smoke Out project that she helped lead. As a direct result of that article, National Geographic sent a team out to document communities in Sac County.
   Who hasn’t heard of the World’s Largest Popcorn Ball? Shirley was the ‘instigator’ behind the very first one that was made in Sac City in 1995 to recognize the popcorn industry in the area, as an addition to the Sac County Expo. The World’s Largest Popcorn Ball, as it sits now in the museum village, is the fourth one made in Sac City and is still holding the Guinness Book of World Records title.
   In 2013, Shirley’s knowledge and passion for community development and the tourism industry led her to the position of Executive Director of the Western Iowa Tourism Region, a thirty-six county area in Western Iowa that stretched from the Minnesota to the Missouri borders.
   Shirley has received multiple awards and has served on so many boards, committees, etc. over the years. In July of 1998, she was elected to serve a one-year term as President of Western Iowa Tourism that served thirty-seven counties. In September of 2013, Shirley Phillips/SETD were given the Silver Shovel Award by the Iowa Area Development Group. The award honors outstanding leadership, innovation, and achievement in business and community development. She was recognized for her leadership in many local, state, and national organizations including President of the US Hwy 20 Corridor Association, board member and past president of Travel Federation of Iowa, board member of Western Iowa Advantage Development Group, Citizen of the Year in Sac City, and Iowa Tourism Leader of the Year in 2003.
  Shirley helped organize the Community Involvement Committee in 1971 and rectified Sac City’s 4th of July Celebration, now called Chautauqua Days. She spearheaded the event and the annual parade until 2006. She also helped with the Quasquicentennial in 1980 and the Sesquicentennial in 2005, and helped write the two history books for those occasions.
   She became actively involved with the school bond issue in Sac City. Eleven years and eight bond issues later, a new elementary school and athletic complex were built. Shirley met with agencies and the school over a period of six and a half years and developed a plan for Kids World, an early childhood development center in Sac City, before finally cutting the ribbon in 2002 when it opened its doors. The center sits right across the street from the elementary school making it easily accessible for those using it.
   Shirley was instrumental in establishing the Main Street Program in Sac City which started as a self-initiated Main Street in 1995 and helped write the grant for the Façade Improvement project. She spent months establishing the Sac County Endowment Foundation so that all of the county’s communities could have access to grant dollars from the Iowa Gaming Association.
   She has served her community over the years by being on numerous committees and boards. She was on the Planning & Zoning Commission, Sac Community School Board (served two terms as president), Sac City Comprehensive Planning Committee, Sac County Crime Stoppers, Sac County Historical Society, was on many committees and served in various roles at the United Methodist Church including being a board member for Unity Church after the two churches merged, and was a Sac City Ambassador, just to name a few. Shirley never hesitated to volunteer and always made sure to include her family and friends to make sure they too understood the importance of service.
   The countless hours, late nights, early mornings, working over the weekend, etc. that Shirley gave to make not only her community, but other communities as well, a better place, is remarkable to say the least. She was a role model to many and someone we should all aspire to be like.
   While she indulged in her work, her family was never forgotten about or put aside. She was a caretaker of all, but especially them. She always made time for the people she loved and put their needs above everything else. She was so proud of her family and absolutely adored her granddaughters and the newest addition to the family, great-grandson, Zaiven Robert. She was always present in the moment because she understood the importance of loving each other and being there always. She loved keeping traditions alive like hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, the 4th of July, and having weekly Sunday dinners with her family. Shirley loved bringing people together as her and her husband, Jerry, had done for many years prior. Her main goal was extending love and filling any room she was in with laughter, which she always achieved.
   She will forever be remembered in the hearts of all who knew her for the remarkable, inspiring, caring, loving, go-getter that she was. She truly leaves behind a legacy that compares to few.
   Shirley is survived by her daughter, Stacy (Rick) Phillips of Sac City, IA; granddaughters Aly (Damon) Hudson of Lake View, IA, and Kait Phillips (Queze Campos) of Omaha, NE; great-grandson Zaiven Campos; foster daughter Melanie Burkitt of Las Vegas, NV; sisters Nancy Kreft and Pat Uren (Billy Pemble) of Sac City, IA; brothers-in-law Jack (Jackie) Phillips of Sac City, IA, and Jim Phillips of Phoenix, AZ; many nieces, nephews, other extended family members and friends.
   She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Phillips (2004); son Bobby Phillips (1989); parents Fred and Wilma Williams; parents-in-law Pete and Avis Phillips; and sister-in-law Sharon Phillips.

 **IN LIEU OF FLOWERS monetary donations are appreciated as a memorial will be established to honor Shirley’s legacy.

Tribute Video
SERVICES
10:30 a.m., Thursday 
December 5, 2024
Unity Church
Sac City, Iowa
*Service will be live on Unity Church's Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/presbyterian.methodist.5
OFFICIATING
Reverend Missy Erickson
VISITATION
12:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday
*Family present 5:00-8:00 p.m.
December 4, 2024
Farber & Otteman Funeral Home
Sac City, Iowa
INTERMENT
Oakland Cemetery
Sac City, Iowa

Condolences

Friday, December 13, 2024 at 8:55 AM
“My heart goes out to you and the whole family. She was a one of a kind lady. i will never forget her.”
- Lee Mahler
Monday, December 9, 2024 at 9:09 AM
“I am so sorry for your loss. It is especially difficult at this time of the year. My thought and prayers are with you all. ”
- Jamie Crum
Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 9:12 AM
“I had the pleasure of knowing Shirley for the past five years during my tenure as the Executive Director of Main Street Manning & my involvement with Western Iowa Tourism events & projects. Her enthusiasm was contagious, her knowledge of western Iowa was vast and her spirit was warm & welcoming. I am thankful to have had her in my life for the past five years. I am a better person for having known Shirley.”
- Jean Voege
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 11:52 PM
“My dear friend Shirley. What an ma My dear friend Shirley, what an amazing person you were. You always spoke your truth and got things done. You always had such love for your family. You will be greatly missed. I love you. Ann”
- Ann
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 8:57 PM
“ Shirley was the queen of Iowa Tourism. She played an unmatched role in being a role model to everyone in Iowa and to so many of us across the nation. I'm so sorry for your loss and so grateful for the time that she gave to our industry.”
- Melissa Luebbe
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 8:56 PM
“Dear Phillips Family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Shirley's passing. She was a remarkable advocate for Western Iowa Tourism, leaving a lasting legacy through her passion, dedication, and vision. Shirley's contributions touched countless lives and helped elevate our region in extraordinary ways. Please know that her memory will continue to inspire us in the work we do, and her absence will be profoundly felt. My thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with your family during this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Kristi Franz and the Staff & Board of Directors at Explore Siouxland”
- Kristi Franz
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 8:56 PM
“Stacy, Rick, Ally and Kait; you all are in our thoughts and prayers. We have known Shirley for over 57 years and will miss seeing her in Sac City so much! She was the heart and soul of the city. We will always be here (but in Minnesota) for you if you need anything. Love to you all!”
- Speed & Moby Gerken
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 2:44 PM
“A great Lytton classmate who did so much for Iowa. Wrap yourself in the great memories of her.”
- JG Glasnapp
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 12:05 PM
“Sympathies to the family. So many memories typically with smiles. Together again with Jerry.”
- Sue Block
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 9:11 AM
“Shirley was as a great person and ambassador to Sac City. She will be missed. RIP Shirley!”
- Mike Pollock
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 9:11 AM
“Shirley and I and many others worked for so many years to see the completion of Hwy. 20 as a 4-lane across the state. Shirley was tireless in this pursuit to that completion. When it was done we all went our separate ways toward something else. Judy and I send our sincere condolences to Shirley's family. May she rest in pease.”
- Dave and Judy Ehler
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 9:11 AM
“So sorry to hear this. Shirley will be greatly missed in so many ways. Just a tiny example....in early 2020 when the pandemic struck and executive orders began to come out regarding restrictions on the hospitality industry, and traffic volumes plummeted, Shirley helped me draft a blanket waiver for sign permit fees for businesses that had advertising signs in the entire state - - multiple programs. Without her help I would not have gotten it through the legal department. We had letters pour in from small business owners expressing deep gratitude for this unusual act by government, and it would never have happened without her help. Just one tiny example....now multiply that by _______? ”
- Brooks Glasnapp
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 9:11 AM
“Shirley was a passionate active volunteer in so many projects for her community and the state - a gracious host for overnight RAGBRAI guests - and a relentless, tireless force for initiatives she believed in such as finishing Hwy 20 and advocating for Western Iowa tourism! Prayers for her family at this difficult time.”
- Wes Ehrecke
Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 11:16 AM
“So very sorry for your loss.”
- Laurie Davis
Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 11:16 AM
“Shirley and Jerry were among those invited to our wedding 57 years ago, and we always enjoyed seeing them over the years. Even though we moved away from Sac City decades ago, we were invited to celebrate the Millennium New Year with them and several other couples. After a night of revelry and fireworks, they fixed us "eggchiladas" in the wee hours of the morning, a dish that became a favorite of ours. As others have said, Shirley was a "mover and shaker" who tirelessly used her leadership skills and indomitable drive for the betterment of her community. We are sorry for your loss, and we will miss her fun, spunky personality.”
- Jim and Susan Jarnagin
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 3:23 PM
“I remember every thing Shirley did from Cow Bingo to the Great Sac County Meltdown and Shape Up etc. She did it for the community and its people and we're grateful and we will miss her ”
- Mariann Terry Alcorn
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 12:55 PM
“So very sorry to hear of the passing of a great friend and classmate. Great memories!!! Rest in peace Shirley. ”
- Richard Cross
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 10:02 AM
“Stacy and family we are so sorry for your loss, my Shirley rest in peace”
- Nolan & Mari Kreft
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 10:02 AM
“The staff of the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City IA express their sorrow at the passing of Shirley. She was a treasure to work with in the Western Iowa tourism region. She will be truly missed.”
- Theresa Jackson
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“My prayers and deepest condolences go out to Shirley's family. So glad I knew this wonderful woman.”
- Lois Long
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“Such a wonderful lady. Sac was blessed to have her. ”
- Mickie Phillips
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“You always brought a smile to my face. Your kindness, your cynicism mixed with your actually very loving and sweet nature was always refreshing. You always put things into perspective using logic when I came to you confused or down and I always ALWAYS appreciated you, Shirley. Even though I haven't been back to Sac City in sometime, you were often in my thoughts and still are. My condolences to not only you for leaving this insane asylum we call earth, but to your family, friends and loved ones who loved you too. You will be missed even by your enemies, my dear Shirley, for they have one less logical argument to keep them in check. How boring is that! Love ya, Shirley! You'll always be on my list of people I look up to on this rock!”
- Paul Smalley
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“A special person with a heart of gold. Shirley was always willing to share insight and a good laugh. Iowa lost a great person who touched many across the state. We send our thoughts and prayers to her family and friends. RIP”
- Rick Allely
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“So very sorry to hear of your mom's passing. Will always remember good times with your family many years ago. My condolences for you and all of the family. ”
- Roxy Rubendall
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“I'm so sad to hear of Shirley's passing. We had many good times together. I was always so impressed by all of the information she could tell about Sac City and any other place . I'm sure she is joining not only Jerry and Bobby, but Wilma and Marilyn as well. Fly high my friend, God bless, until we meet again.”
- Barb Rench
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“My sincere condolences in the loss of your mom. She truly was a champion for Sac City, Western Iowa Tourism Region, the state of Iowa and most importantly her family. Shirley's beautiful smile and determined personality will always be remembered. I will cherish the wonderful memories of our friendship for close to 40 years. Keeping your entire family in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏❤️🙏”
- Elaine Farwell
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“So sorry to hear about Shirley. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Shirley put her heart and soul into the betterment of Sac County. She will be missed but her work will live on.”
- Diamond and Devi McBride
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“Prayers & sympathy to Shirley's family. May God hold you in the palm of his hand during the most difficult days. Shirley was a great promoter for Sac City & Sac County!”
- Jan & Bill Engler
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“Our condolences! Sending prayers to Stacy and your family!🙏🙏”
- Judy Olson
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“I worked with Shirley in the tourism field for many years. She was the consummate professional and loved her family and community. My prayer for you is that you will be able to celebrate the life she led even as you mourn her passing.”
- Vicki Hughes
Friday, November 29, 2024 at 9:10 AM
“I'm so sorry to hear of Shirley's passing. She was a lovely woman. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.”
- Catherine Lechtenberg
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 5:38 PM
“I'm sorry for your loss. She will always be remembered ”
- James Meusburger
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 5:38 PM
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Shirley's family and friends ”
- Charlie and Donna Peyton
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 5:38 PM
“My prayers are with Stacy and her family, may God bless you in this difficult time. She was one of a kind, a tireless promoter of Sac City and Sac County.”
- Pat Laursen
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 5:38 PM
“So sorry Stacy and family. My heart breaks for all you. Hugs 🤗 and prayers 🙏🏻🙏🏻. Betty Luckow”
- Betty Luckow
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 3:39 PM
“I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.. Jodi Miller”
- Jodi K Miller
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 3:34 PM
“I am so very sorry to hear of Shirley's passing. She was a great person. There was no one more supportive of Sac City. My deepest condolences to her family. ”
- Sandy Bonner
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 3:05 PM
“Ny deepest sympathies go out to Stacy and Family. Shirley had a Big Heart and Always made me feel like I was Home when I would see her when I'd run into her. My mom was one of her school teachers and she always had great stories about Shirley as her student. Shirley made a Big difference in the community and her hard work will shine through for many years to come. ”
- Janet Everts Noth
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 3:05 PM
“I am very sorry to hear about Shirley's passing. You are ll in my thoughts. ”
- Dana Drost
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:38 PM
“I am so sorry for your loss of "Aunt Shirley"!!! I couldn't even believe this when I heard. She was an amazing woman! Many prayers for the whole family. ”
- Nicci Timmerman
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:32 PM
“My thoughts & prayers go out to the family. So sorry for your loss. ❤️🙏🙏”
- Margaret Mooney
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:20 PM
“So sorry to learn of this. We offer prayers of comfort to the family. May you lean into God who can grant that comfort in this very hard time. ”
- Arlyn and Virginia Hillmet
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:17 PM
“Our thoughts and prayers to all of the family. Shirley was definitely one in a million and will be missed by many. May your memories and faith carry you through this difficult time. ”
- Dave and Cindy Wuebker
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:12 PM
“So sorry to hear this. Remembering Shirley and how tirelessly she worked to complete our new Highway 20. My sincere sympathy to her family.”
- MarleneGlasnapp
Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 2:12 PM
“So very sorry for your loss. Just don't have the words. My deepest condolences.”
- Jo Ellerbrock
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