Leona Mae Phillips, 66, of Redfield, SD, died Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at Golden Living Center in Redfield.

Her funeral will be Friday, May 4, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at Thelen Funeral Home in Redfield. Reverend Matthew Richards will officiate.

Burial will be in Restlawn Cemetery in Huron, SD.

Visitation will be Thursday from 1-8:00 p.m. with the family present from 5-7:00 p.m. at Thelen Funeral Home in Redfield. www.thelenfuneralhome.com

Leona Mae was born December 26, 1945, in Huron, to John and Irene (Palmer) French. She grew up in Huron with her parents and siblings. Leona married Gary Phillips on February 15, 1964. They continued to live in the Huron area until 1984, when they moved to Doland, SD. They moved to Athol and then to Redfield. Gary died in 1990.

Leona spent her life taking care of her aunt, babysitting and cooking at local restaurants. She also cooked at South Dakota Developmental Center-Redfield, local nursing homes and made donuts at Casey's.

Leona enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, camping, cooking and making crafts to give away.

Leona is survived by her children: Eddie (Marilyn) Phillips of Ashton, SD; Peggy (Harlan) Place of Conde, SD; and three grandchildren: Gary, Ruth and Mark. She is also survived by her four brothers: Archie (Pat) French of Vidor, TX; Gene (Jodi) French of Foley, MN;, Dale French of Aberdeen, SD; and Larry French of Huron, SD; her three sisters: Liz (Dale) Hult of Huron, SD, Rose (Kim Morey) Rangel of Rapid City, SD and Sheri (Jeff) Decker of Huron, SD; and many extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gary, one sister LaVerne and two infant brothers: John and Gerald.