Phenon Wilkes Memorial Services Fund
My dear friend, Phenon Wilkes, passed away peacefully, but unexpectedly, on July 2nd. She suffered a major stroke a year and a half ago and fought her way back to walking and talking remarkably fast, only to have a series of brain bleeds a year ago that almost took her life.
But Phenon had other plans. She, again, fought for her life and won. She not only survived, but she pushed and pushed until she was breathing on her own again, smiling, talking and cracking jokes like she always did. Her survival and the strides she made were nothing short of a miracle.
Throughout it all, Phenon had her daughter, Angelique, by her side, a constant companion and advocate. When I met Phenon while working at ASR, I soon learned her biggest pride and joy in life was her daughter. She just lit up when talking about her. And after getting to know Angie throughout the past year and a half, I can see why Phenon was so proud. Angie, has done everything a daughter could possibly do to keep her mom alive, safe, healthy, and happy. She gave up her job and her personal life to be by her mom’s side when Phenon’s life was hanging on the balance.
When Phenon was stable and healthy, living in a care facility, Angie returned to work and she visited daily. When the pandemic hit, and Angie couldn’t visit anymore, she FaceTimed Phenon regularly.
Anyone who knew Phenon well knew she had big plans for her life prior to her stroke. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics in August of 2018, and had hopes of a promotion. She and Angie were looking at houses and had plans to buy a big, brand new house together. She wanted at least four bedrooms to hold all her shoes and sewing machines.
Angie didn’t give up on that dream. She recently got a second job to speed up saving for a down payment on a new house for the two of them. In their own home, Angie could really work with her mom to build up her strength to get her walking again.
Phenon’s passing is a shock. It’s sad and seems unfair. My only comfort is that she’s free from her bed-ridden body and feeling God’s love. I find comfort in the idea that we can talk to her from wherever we are now. I picture her being the ornery little devil on my shoulder telling me to go ahead a flip off that rude driver who just cut me off. It’s not the same, though. I will miss her terribly. I hope reading this is a gentle reminder to express your love to those you care about. Don’t let kind words go unsaid.
It’s been a long road for Angie and she needs support now more than ever. Phenon did not have any life insurance, so the funeral expenses fall solely on Angie’s shoulders. She’s already taken on so much. I hope that by sharing Phenon’s story, you will feel a connection enough to want to contribute in any way you can. Thank you for taking the time to read about Phenon. Any and all shares are appreciated.