1970-2026
Yvonne Colene (Peters) Phillips— known to so many as the warm, radiant “Coco,” and to the love of her life, her husband Jim of 25 cherished years, as his beloved Colene—passed away far too soon on February 4, 2026, leaving a profound emptiness in the hearts of all who loved her. Born on June 8, 1970, in the small town of Bellefontaine, Ohio, she was the treasured daughter of devoted parents Larry and Ruth Peters. Colene was a woman of remarkable strength, fierce passion, and boundless love.
Her world revolved around her family and the wide circle of friends she held just as dear. To be loved by Coco was to be fiercely protected, enthusiastically celebrated, and wrapped in unwavering loyalty. No one was more devoted to her husband, Jim, or prouder of her two children, Carson and Holland-Rebecca.
She opened her home—and her heart—without hesitation. Whether it was hosting an entire soccer team after practice, welcoming a house full of Holland’s friends, or turning an ordinary weekend into an impromptu celebration, Coco made space for joy at a moment’s notice. A last-minute run to Flora-Bama with the girls, a spontaneous trip to Colorado, a boat day that appeared out of nowhere—if friends were involved, she was already packing the cooler.
Extravagant planned adventures were her dream, but she was just as happy with the unplanned ones. A weekend gathering could materialize in an afternoon, and suddenly Phillips’ house was alive with laughter, good food, cold drinks, and usually a mimosa (or two) in hand.
Coco was a gifted cook who never stopped collecting and creating recipes. She loved experimenting in the kitchen almost as much as she loved filling the house with music—there was almost always a playlist humming in the background while she cooked. Feeding people and sharing music were two of the many ways she showed love.
Professionally, Colene made a significant impact in the elevator industry, where she spent the majority of her career. In a field historically dominated by men, she emerged as a trailblazing female leader. Her dedication to safety helped protect thousands of people daily, and her accomplishments earned her numerous awards and widespread respect from peers.
Colene was preceded in death by her father, Larry Peters, and her brother, Max Peters. She is survived by her loving husband, Jim Phillips; her daughter, Holland-Rebecca Parker, and son-in-law, Kevin Chen; her son, Carson Phillips; her brother, Matt Peters; her nieces, Amanda Long and Caitlin Peters; her nephew, Dalton Peters; her mother, Ruth Peters; and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and extended family whose lives she touched deeply.
A Funeral Service will take place Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home, 5591 US Hwy 68 S., West Liberty, OH 43357. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will take place in Highland Memorial Cemetery following the service.
A celebration of her life will also be held at a later date in Arkansas, details to be announced.
Colene lived with her whole heart wide open. She loved fiercely, laughed easily, and gave without keeping score. The world feels quieter without her infectious enthusiasm, her unwavering loyalty, and the rare kind of kindness that changes people for the better. She will be missed every single day, but her light—her beautiful, unstoppable light—will live on in all of us forever.
Rest in peace, sweet Colene. We love you beyond words.
Online Condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com
