Michele Lea Phillipus' Obituary
Michele Lea Phillipus, 54, passed away on January 26, 2024, at her home in Arlington, Texas after a long battle with lung cancer. She was born on June 12, 1969, in Houston, Texas to Leo Phillipus and Shirley Jean Partin Phillipus.
Michele grew up in Houston, Texas and attended schools in the Aldine Independent School District. She was a member of the band at Teague Middle School and Nimitz High School. She was also a member of the Nimitz Drill Team. She graduated from Nimitz High School in 1987. She received her Associate’s Degree from North Harris County College. She later attended the University of Texas at Arlington, where she received her bachelor’s degree in May 2016, majoring in Business Management.
She lived in El Paso for several years before moving to Mansfield. She joined the DFW Foods Division of Ben E. Keith Company in December 2001 as Office Accounts Receivable Associate and was promoted in 2007 to Office Accounting Supervisor. In 2014, in recognition of her work and performance, she moved into the Corporate Office of Ben E. Keith as Accounts Receivable Associate, progressing to Account Receivable Specialist, and finally to Accounts Receivable Senior Specialist. She was loved by her managers and teammates at Ben E. Keith.
Michele was preceded in death by her mother, Shirley Jean Partin Phillipus, and her grandparents, Jewel Partin and Elmer Dee Partin.
Michele is survived by her father, Leo Phillipus of Houston, her former husband, Michael James Sundean, and their daughter Megan Michele Sundean-Wright, their son Matthew Michael Sundean, her brother Michael Dee Phillipus, and her brother Mark Edward Phillipus. She is also survived by her grandchildren who she loved dearly, Ethan Alexander Wright and Isabel Lea Wright.
In 2018, Michele was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. She participated in three drug trials at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, and then underwent therapy at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
For those who knew Michele, she was a kind-hearted and joyous soul that would never make anything about herself, even when she deserved it. For those that missed the opportunity to meet Michele, she would’ve given her all to bring light to your day. Her commitment to bringing light to others, even in her own struggles, speaks volumes about her character.
As we honor her memory, let us wear her favorite color, turquoise, as a symbol of remembrance and celebration. And for those who don’t have turquoise attire, we’re certain Michele would graciously accept the color black as well.
A memorial service will be held at Mansfield Funeral Home and Cremations, 1556 Heritage Parkway, Mansfield, Texas 76063 at 11:00 am on February 24, 2024. It will be a time to reflect, share stories, and find solace in the collective memories of a remarkable soul. May her legacy continue to inspire kindness and compassion in all of us.
Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
What’s your fondest memory of Michele?
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Share a story where Michele's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michele you’ll never forget.
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