Column: Tribute To Mrs. Else May Marie Phipps

October 15, 2026

Else May Marie Phipps Bermuda Oct 15 2026[Column written by MP Chris Famous]

The Ties that bind us.

On a warm and sunny afternoon at Christ Church Devonshire the sanctuary was full to the brim of persons wearing different shades of pink. Some had fancy top hats, on some just simple pink, but all had love in their heart as they were there to honour one lady of giant stature – Mrs. Elsie Phipps

Mrs Elsie Phipps, nee Wade, was born and bred in St George’s Parish. After marrying the love of her life Mr Llywellyn “Lou” Phipps she moved to Devonshire. There she raised five children, multiple grandchildren and some great grands, but more importantly, she helped to raise the community of Green Acres and Devonshire on a whole.

Boy oh boy did Devonshire turn out for her.

During the service there was a steady stream of persons giving tributes and testimony of the love she gave to her children, her grandchildren, her nieces and her nephews. Whether it be her cooking, sewing or motherly love the stories told reminded us all of who this lady truly was. Outside in the church yard many gave tributes informally about the love that she gave to them.

I personally can attest to the open door and arms of love she always had. I often took my grandchildren to see her and at each time she would offer them something as simple as a banana but it meant the world to them.

One particular Christmas I got a call from her daughter that I had to come pick something up. When I went over there I was given a green package, and inside of that package there was a tie, a beautiful tie with a blue background with the Bermuda flag on the top.

On Wednesday October 14th, I wore that tie with pride to honor Mrs. Phipps. That tie signifies the tie that she would always have with her family, the people of Devonshire and Bermuda on a whole. Indeed it is the ties that bind us all.

We love you Mrs. Phipps.

- Chris Famous, MP for Constituency #11, Devonshire East

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