Celeste Ann Holden Phillips, 67, of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2024 surrounded by her loving husband, sister, and her devoted Border Terriers, Hank and Ollie.
Born June 15, 1956, in Lenoir, North Carolina, Celeste possessed unlimited creativity and a generous heart. Beginning in childhood, horses held a special place in Celeste’s life. She was known to build her own jumps and would casually brush off any injuries sustained from her adventures. A skilled rider, she excelled in horse shows and competitions, becoming a proud member of the Mecklenburg Hounds Fox Hunters.
Celeste attended the Governor’s School of NC and went on to earn an art degree from Appalachian State University. Her artistic talent was undeniable, with her creations gracing private collections and renowned institutions like the North Carolina Museum of Art and published in Southern Living Magazine. Eventually, she combined her expertise in interior design, art, and her love for people, by founding Celeste’s Interiors. This passionate endeavor began in Hudson, NC, moved to Lenoir, and found its eventual home on Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock. Her warmth and welcoming spirit turned clients into lifelong friends.
Celeste had an undeniable presence. Beyond her captivating beauty, her infectious laugh and southern accent charmed everyone she met. She embodied the essence of southern elegance, yet wasn’t afraid to get her hands dirty in the stables or while tending to her garden. A true prankster, she filled the room with playful antics and mischievous humor.
Celeste married her best friend, Daniel Phillips, in their cherished haven of Hopetown, Abacos in 2003. Together they built a life filled with adventure, love, and laughter.
Celeste’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith in God and Jesus Christ. She was a beacon of light, and her warmth will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved her.
Celeste is survived by her husband, sister Marsha Mull, niece Stephanie Adams Willemsen (Koos), niece Amy Caroline Jennings (Aaron), nephew Matthew Mull (Tara), nephew Jonathon Jennings (Kristi), Great-Nephew Holden Willemsen, Great-Niece Scarlett Mull; Stepchildren Katie Cothern (Brian), Adam Phillips (Amanda), Madeline Minogue (Domhnall) and Izzy Hayes (Lane). Celeste will be missed by her many step-grandchildren: Aiden Burns, Liam Phillips, Grace Phillips, Shepard Hayes, Boone Hayes, Cian Minogue, and Rory Minogue.
Celeste is preceded in death by her mother Marjorie Minton Holden, father Albert Holden, sister Dawn Jennings and brother-in-law Tom Jennings.
A celebration of Celeste’s life will be held on Sunday, June 2 at Blowing Rock Country Club, 200 Country Club Drive, Blowing Rock, NC, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. If you are interested in supporting a cause close to Celeste’s heart, please consider donating to the Watauga Humane Society. If you would like to contribute to a park bench in Blowing Rock in memory of Celeste, please mail a check to PO Box 47, Blowing Rock, NC, 28605 attn: Parks and Recreation, for Celeste Phillips.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Celeste Ann Holden Phillips, please visit our floral store.
