Aretas Ann Davis Rivers Phillips

Chesterfield, SC

Mrs. Aretas Ann Davis Rivers Phillips, age 82, went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at her home with her family by her side . A Celebration of Life service will be 6:00 PM Friday, June 12, 2020 at The Living Word Ministries, 100 Zoar Road, Chesterfield, SC.

Mrs. Phillips was born September 28, 1937 in Chesterfield, SC a daughter of the late Carey H. Davis, Jr. and Helen Kluttz Davis. She was a graduate of Zoar High School, and furthered her education by receiving her Bachelor’s degree from Winthrop College, her Master’s Degree from the College of Charleston, and her Post-Master’s Certification from UNCC.

Mrs. Phillips began her career in education at Chesterfield – Marlboro TEC working with the Student Support Services. She and her family later moved to Charleston, SC where she taught at different area schools. Upon moving back to Chesterfield, Mrs. Phillips taught at Edwards Elementary until her retirement.

A lady who enjoyed serving the Lord, Aretas was a member of Zoar United Methodist Church, and enjoyed attending The Living Word Ministries. She was a former member of Middendorf Church of God, and Cheraw Family Worship Center where she played the piano and was a member of the praise team.

Mrs. Phillips enjoyed traveling and spoke often of her mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Always giving back, she was a volunteer with the Red Cross and CHESCO Services. After retiring from teaching, Aretas volunteered much of her time tutoring students at Maranatha Christian School. She was a strong voice and support for the implementation of Release Time Bible Education in Chesterfield County. Her hobbies included using her John Deere Tractor, finding deals at thrift stores, and playing rummy. Of all things most enjoyed, spending time with her family and grandchildren were of most importance.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Phillips was also preceded in death by her husband, Boyce Daniel “Phil” Phillips, Jr.

Survivors include her son, Carey Shaun (Sherilyn) Rivers of Johns Island, SC; daughter, Kelli K. Rivers of Chesterfield, SC; and their father, Vernon Cohen Rivers of Charleston, SC; grandchildren, Krista (Denny) Balchin, Christian Priest, Ethan (Neeci) Priest, Logan Priest, Nathan Priest, Kyle Rivers, and Michelle, (Joe) Torres; great grandchildren, Eason, Madyson, Landen, Peyton, Colter, Chayton, Leland, Elli, Trent, Miles, and Lila Ray.

The family would like to acknowledge their appreciation to Pastors Scott & Lani Adams of The Living Word Ministries and the staff of Regency SouthernCare Hospice of Chesterfield for their love and support shown to Mrs. Aretas and her family.

Memorials may be made to The Living Word "Overcomers by Faith Ministry," 100 Zoar Road, Chesterfield, SC 29079.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Phillips family.