Marihuana "Lee" Phipps

MARIHUANA “LEE” PHIPPS
Also known as Wanda or Wannie to her friends and family. But most people just called her Lee

Lee was the proud matriarch of her family. A job she took very seriously. As the oldest sibling of 4, mother of 3, grammy to 8, and great grandma to 11 her family was her everything and greatest pride. She did her best to be the glue that held her family together.

Lee came from humble beginnings. Her parents moved to Iowa from Kentucky before she was born so they could have a better life. Her parents worked hard to purchase a home in Pleasant Hill where Lee and her siblings were raised.

Lee attended South East Polk High School and became a cosmologist shortly after graduation. At one time she owned her own business. She also worked with troubled girls at the Mitchellville Training School for Girls and became a correctional officer when it converted into a women’s prison. She then moved on to work for the Department of Human Services East Office. She earned her way to becoming a supervisor in her office with her hard work and dedication. Later on, she would have to leave her position and disable out breaking her heart.

Her health battles started early in her life. She was diagnosed with a painful movement disorder called Dystonia. The physical pain she endured from her condition built the fighter she became. She drew from that when she was later diagnosed with late-stage kidney failure.

She was determined to stay on her own 2 feet from the beginning, and that she did. She braved many medical procedures and a kidney transplant that later failed her. Her fighting spirit kept her going to her dialysis 3 times a week through holidays and bad weather she was committed.

Lee always gave the glory to God to how she stayed strong through each medical procedure she endured. Her faith in the Lord was where she drew her strength. Many times, Lee managed the impossible, leaving her doctors speechless. God performed countless miracles in her life.

Left behind to carry on her memory are her 2 daughters: Heidie (Robbie) White and Heather (Sean) Austin, Brother: Huston JR (Gayle) Kellems, Sister: “Kit” Karihuana (Lonnie) Schulz, Sister: “Shari” Sharihauna (Erv) Fett, Grandchildren: Shelby, Kassidy, Dakota, Cheyenne, Charleigh, Huston L, Aaliyah, Teirra, and 11 Greatgrandchildren. Her companion Rick Gillson who was by her side through her toughest battles, was her best friend, confidant, and greatest support and whom she loved very much.

Lee was met at heavens gate by her parents Huston V and Emma Kellems and her son Huston G Curran.

The family would like to say a special thank you to the nurses that took care of Lee at Davita in Ankeny.

Family will greet guest on Thursday August 22, 2024 from 11am -12pm at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home 105 4th Street S.W. Altoona, IA With services to follow at 12pm.

Memorial contributions may be directed to family in loving memory of Lee.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonfuneralhome.com

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