Lela Phillips Couch
January 28, 1913 ~ December 2, 2001
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Born in Yancey County, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Jefferson and Katherine King Phillips. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Jackie Couch Kettleson, four brothers, Charlie, Walt, Ross and Fred Phillips, and three sisters, Ida Miller, Ada Jaskins, and Velcy Hjort. She was married to Jack Couch who died July 23, 2001. They were married for 70 years and together owned and operated several West Asheville businesses including a grocery store, a cafe, and a television and appliance store prior to their retirement in 1970. She was one of the founding members of St. George’s Episcopal Church and she was a former president of the Aycock School PTA.
After their retirement in 1970, she and her husband Jack spent the next 14 years touring the United States in a motorhome before finally settling down at their home in Oteen.
She is survived by one daughter, Jeanene Hawkins of Enka and two sons, Sam J. Couch, Jr. of Newport Beach, CA, and George J. Couch of Tryon; one sister, Leona Phillips Bailey of Yancey County; thirteen grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Graveside services will be at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday at Green Hills Cemetery with the Rev. Harry Woggon officiating.
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is in charge of the arrangements.
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My deepest condolences to your family. Mrs. Couch was a lovely lady. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to talk to Mr. & Mrs. Couch a couple of years ago. We reminesced many memories of my Mom and Dad and their friendship with your family. I’m sure you have many memories that will linger in your hearts forever.