LongeviQuest is pleased to announce the age validation of Merle Phillips of the United States at age 111. She was born in Kingston, Arkansas, United States on 2 April 1907. Phillips’s educational background includes two Bachelor of Arts degrees in mathematics, psychology, and education from Buena Vista University and a Master of Arts in social welfare from the University of Iowa. Despite holding a teacher’s certificate and an initial interest in mathematics education, Ms. Phillips did not pursue a teaching career.

Phillips got married on 26 May 1937. The couple remained childless and enjoyed extensive travel together during vacations. After the Second World War, the couple relocated to Chicago, where she played a vital role in a research lab that evolved into the Sherwin Williams Paint Company. Upon her official retirement at the age of 70, Phillips’s dedication to service continued. She extended her time and talents to the Wheaton area, providing care for both children and elderly adults. Remarkably, she continued to engage in volunteer activities until her complete retirement at the age of 99. Additionally, Phillips embarked on a successful writing career at the age of 72, publishing 11 autobiographical books chronicling her life experiences.

In 1971, Phillips suffered a severe car accident that resulted in a multitude of injuries, including a split liver, broken ribs, fractured bones, a broken back, a punctured lung, and internal bleeding. Despite initial skepticism from medical professionals regarding her survival and potential paralysis, Phillips made a remarkable, full recovery within a year.

On her 110th birthday. (Source: Belmont Village)

On her 110th birthday.
(Source: Belmont Village)

Phillips passed away in Carol Stream, Illinois, USA, on 18 August 2018 at the age of 111 years, 138 days.

LongeviQuest congratulates Merle Phillips’s family on her posthumous recognition.

For more information, please view Phillips’s Directory Profile here.