Ronda L. Phillips passed away peacefully at her home in Springdale, Arkansas, on November 4, 2026, at the age of 72, under the care of her husband, Scott, and hospice.

Born February 4, 1954, in Springdale, Ronda lived her entire life in Northwest Arkansas. She was the daughter of the late Raymond Ellenbarger and Juanita (Bowen) Ellenbarger. On June 21, 1997, she married Scott Phillips, and together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and a shared love of the water.

Scott built Ronda a beautiful log home on Beaver Lake, and for the next twenty years that house became her greatest passion. She poured her heart into caring for it, tending every detail so she could fully enjoy the place that brought her so much peace. She loved being near the water, especially Beaver Lake, and the home they created there was a reflection of the life they shared. Being a mother to her three sons was her greatest achievement.

Those closest to her called her “Ellie Mae.” She had a rare gift for nursing sick and injured animals back to health, opening her home to any creature that needed care. Caring for and putting others first was, simply, who she was. Scott will forever miss his “Stinker Bug.”

In her working years, Ronda served as a technician in optometry and eye care. She was a member of the Robinson Avenue Church of Christ.

Ronda is survived by her devoted husband, Scott Phillips of Sonora, Arkansas; her children, Jack Clark of Missouri, Tyler B. Clark of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Brandon Phillips of Rogers, Arkansas; her sister, Gayle and husband, Ralph Parsons, of Sonora, Arkansas; her niece, Staci Williams; three great-nieces, two great-nephews, three great-great-nieces, and two great-great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her nephew, Eddie Parsons.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Sonora Cemetery. Ron Ellenbarger will officiate. Pallbearers will be Heath Young, Brian Young, Jo Don Bickel, Robert Parsons, Daniel Parsons, and Brian Williams.