Glenda Player Phillips

Glenda Player Phillips, aged 89, departed peacefully for her heavenly home on April 9, 2026, in Laurinburg, NC. She was the cherished daughter of the late Charles and Adele Player, born in Wilson, NC, on December 9, 1936. It was in Wilson that Glenda met and married Thurman Darrell Phillips, the love of her life. Shortly after welcoming their third child, the family relocated to Laurinburg, where Glenda and Thurman raised their children and became deeply involved in the local community.

Glenda was known for her love of people and her dedication to helping others. She devoted over 30 years to the St. Andrews Presbyterian Career and Personal Counseling Center, serving as Administrative Assistant, Psychometrist, and Office Manager. Through her compassion and commitment, Glenda touched countless lives throughout her career.

Beloved by all who met her, Glenda was celebrated for her warmth, kindness, and genuine smile, making everyone feel welcome. She was an exceptional cook, always ready to welcome anyone in need to her table. Her famous Chocolate Multilayer Cake was well-known in the community, and she often made and sold these cakes to raise funds for cooking and delivering meals to homebound individuals. Glenda’s generosity and dedication to serving others left a lasting mark on those around her.

Glenda’s devotion extended to her church, Stewartsville Baptist Church. She and her husband joined the congregation when it was still a mission, and she remained active by teaching Sunday School, leading children’s groups, and providing support to families in need.

As a devoted wife and mother, Glenda always prioritized her family, offering hugs, a listening ear, and wise advice. Her playful spirit brought joy to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Although she claimed she could not sing, her lullabies brought comfort and delight to three generations. Glenda will be dearly missed.

Glenda was preceded in death by her husband, Thurman Darrell Phillips; her parents, Charles and Adele Player; and her siblings, Carolyn Bruce, Charles Player Jr., Shirley Harris, and Arthur Player. She is survived by her daughters, Catherine and husband Joe Kelly of Laurinburg, Melissa and husband Rob Nethery of Fort Mill, and Valerie Gover of Laurinburg. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren—Virginia Nethery, Robert Andrew Nethery and wife Sarah, William Gover and wife Kaela, Meghan Kelly, Caitlin Hudson and husband Zach, Natalie Gover, and Addison Loux—and eleven great-grandchildren—Carmen, Samantha, Joel, Brystol, Alana, Eli, Holden, Benjamin, Connor, Amari, and Tatum. She will also be remembered as a beloved aunt to her nieces and nephews, and Grandma Glenda to many dear friends.

To honor Glenda’s memory, her family will receive guests on Tuesday April 14, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Richard Boles Funeral Service of Laurinburg. The funeral service will be held 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 15 at the Richard Bole Funeral Service Chapel with a graveside service following in Hillside Memorial Park.

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