Sydney Buntin Phillips, 88, departed this life for her eternal rest on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023 from her residence next to her daughter in Cherokee, Ala. Mrs. Phillips was born in Red Lick, Miss. (Jefferson Co.) on November 10, l934 to the late William P. Bunting and Josephine Davidson Bunting. She grew up in the Red Lick community. Sydney was associated with the hospitality industry managing and owning several restaurants over the years. She was a master cook. In Tupelo, she was the original franchisee of Steak Out. Sydney loved taking care of folks and providing memorable meals for them. She and her late husband, James Paul “Jim” Martin lived in Saltillo many years where they were active members of Saltillo Methodist Church. An animal lover, she rescued numerous dogs over time, made wonderful homes for them and perfectly adored them. A great ole soul who always encouraged others, she was lovingly known by family and many others as “Hey Granny”.
A graveside service celebrating her life will be held at 2:30 PM Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Woodlawn Cemetery on Old Hwy 51 in Grenada, Ms. with Rev. John Foster from Saltillo Methodist Church officiating. Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo (662 840 5000) is honored to be serving the family. There will be no local services.
Mrs. Phillips is survived by her daughter, Deborah Richardson and husband, Mike of Cherokee, Ala. who lovingly cared for her the last years of her life; 3 adopted children, James “Bubba” Phillips, Angelia Phillips and Tammy Phillips; her grandchildren, Dylan Holt, Amber Voyles, Michael Richardson, Cheri Holt and Jamie Holt; a special 5 year old great grandbaby, Hollie Richardson, whom she adored and her extended family including nieces, nephews and cousins and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Josephine (Mimi) Bunting, her husband “Jim” Martin; a son, Chuck Holt; 2 brothers and 3 sisters.
Condolences may be emailed to hollandfuneraldirectors@comcast.net
