Joanne Halligan Phillips, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, passed away on August 4, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on October 9, 1934, in Pittsburgh, PA, Joanne was the daughter of the late Francis Halligan and Johanna O’Toole. She grew up in Pittsburgh and graduated from Carrick High School in 1952. 

Joanne was a woman of strength, loyalty, and diligence. She will be remembered for her humor, competitiveness, and dedication to family. Her life was a testament to community service and volunteerism. 

She married her loving husband, Patrick J. Phillips, on April 15th, 1961, and together they raised four children: Mary Pat, Beth Ann, Jennifer, and John. She was a proud grandmother to Conor. 

Joanne had a passion for travel, and this helped to shape her varied career. She was a stewardess for United Airlines flying for two years before antiquated rules forced her to resign when she was no longer a single woman. She was a stay-at-home mother until she became a travel agent for business and leisure clients eventually opening a Travel Agency of her own with Patrick. After selling the agency when Patrick retired, she then worked as the station coordinator for America West Airlines and John Wayne Airport. 

Joanne was an avid reader and was rarely without a pile of books waiting to be read and always left with the newest books from the bookstores she visited. Joanne was a passionate parent advocate, vocal in her support of the right of special needs children having equal access to appropriate education long before the established law IDEA. She and Patrick were bridge partners and had a regular monthly gathering to play. She was an active volunteer for many years for March Field Air Museum assisting in the library and with special events. Additionally, she donated her United stewardess uniform to the civilian aviation exhibit which can still be viewed today. She was also an active member of Clipped Wings, a United Stewardess alumni group which supported various philanthropic projects including support for the Special Olympics. One of Joanne’s greatest loves was her rescue dog Cubby who gave her great joy and companionship in these last years. They enjoyed meeting their human and canine friends at the dog park and visiting residents in memory care at their assisted living community. 

She is survived by her children Mary Pat Phillips of Mountain View, Beth Ann & Thomas Goodwill of Santa Rosa, Jennifer M. Phillips of Tustin, and John H. Phillips of Fairfield and her grandchildren Conor Phillips of Manteca. She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years Patrick J. Phillips, sisters Patricia Stoiber, Rosemary Halligan, and brother John Thomas Halligan

In Joanne’s memory, we encourage you to support your local literacy, animal services and Veteran’s organizations which she supported over her many years, teaching us the value of community and volunteerism. 

She will be interned with Patrick at the National Cemetery at a private, family ceremony.