Ramona "Gail" Phillips

May 15, 1944 -

Mar 25, 2021

Honoring the life and legacy of Ramona "Gail" McIver Phillips. Gail passed away surrounded by loved ones in Anchorage, Alaska, on March 25, 2021, at the age of 76.

Born on May 15, 1944, to Lois and Wallace McIver in Juneau, Gail was the oldest of seven girls and grew up in Council and Nome, Alaska. Gail spent her early summers in Council at the mining camp owned by her father and grandfather.

Gail worked for Senate President Tim Kelly before she was sworn into the 25th Alaska State Legislature in January 1991. In 1993, Rep. Phillips became House Majority Leader before being elected Speaker of the House in 1995, which she held for four years. Gail served on many boards and councils throughout her life, many with the University of Alaska, Alaska Aviation Museum and resource development causes. Gail was an active member of the Homer United Methodist Church, and served on its Board.

Speaker Gail Phillips won many awards and recognitions throughout her life. Gail is survived by her husband of 56 years, Walt; daughter, Robin Phillips; daughter, Kim Griffith; grandsons, Scott and Jace Griffith; her sisters, Barbie, Kay, Janny, Cheryl, Susan and Karen and their families; and many more grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed toward a scholarship fund at UAF that is being established. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 3, 2021. Visit www.GailPhillipsAlaska.com for more information.