It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ilene Mary Phipps (née Barbour), peacefully on Monday, May 12, 2025, at St. Gabriel’s Villa in Chelmsford, Ontario.
Born August 23, 1943, to Jack and Margaret Barbour (née Muir), Ilene grew up in Virginiatown, Ontario. She trained as a teacher at North Bay Teachers’ College and later earned a Bachelor of Arts from Laurentian University.
On July 6, 1968, she married Peter Phipps in Sudbury, where they built a loving home and family together. Ilene was a dedicated teacher with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board for over 30 years.
Summers were spent at their camp on Black Lake, where she and Peter eventually retired. Ilene was an avid gardener and an enthusiastic bridge player, active in the Sudbury Bridge Club. She loved teaching, volunteering, and attending tournaments with friends.
Most of all, Ilene cherished her role as Nana. She delighted in baking, reading, playing games, and creating precious memories with her grandchildren.
Ilene will be deeply missed by her husband Peter; son Neil Phipps (Sara); daughter Sarah Atherton (Jeremy); and grandchildren Chloe and Parker Atherton, and Kate McIlraith (Justin). She is lovingly remembered by her brother Ken Barbour and the family of her late brother Patrick Barbour (Diane).
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at St. Gabriel’s Villa for their care and kindness.
As per Ilene’s wishes, no formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to Parkinson Canada or Cystic Fibrosis Canada would be appreciated.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Simple Wishes of the North.
