When asked of her greatest accomplishment, Phillips often stated: "Surviving."

In a 1990 interview with CNN's Larry King, Phillips explained the bottom line of dispensing advice:

"There is always an answer, even if it's say, look, pal, you can't change anybody but yourself. You got to play the cards that are dealt you and you have to live with this, do the best you can. But you got to accept what fate deals you," Phillips said.

She is survived by her husband of 73 years, Mort Phillips; daughter Jeanne Phillips; grandchildren, Dean Phillips, Tyler Phillips, Jay Phillips, Hutton Phillips; and two great-granddaughters, Daniela and Pia.

Private services have been held.