Marika Shantel Phillips, age 25, of Buckhannon, WV, died Friday, November 25, 2022, in a car accident in Weston, WV.

She was born August 20, 1997, in Buckhannon, a daughter of Brandy Claypool and husband Charles of Buckhannon and the late Michael Freeman. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Geraldine Rowan.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by one daughter, Oaklynn Marie Phillips of Buckhannon, one son, Haven Michael Phillips of Buckhannon; two sisters, Alexus Smith and husband Brooks of Buckhannon and Jerika Herron and husband Ethan of Tallmansville, WV; two brothers, Hunter Freeman and wife Kianna of Tallmansville and Logan Freeman of Buckhannon; one step sister, Kellee Davisson of Weston; one step brother, Chaz Claypool of Buckhannon; maternal grandfather, Marvin Rowan of Buckhannon; paternal grandparents, Michael and Cindy Freeman of Weston and five nephews, Briston, Bryson and Brantley Herron and Colton Freeman all of Tallmansville and Camden Smith of Buckhannon.

Marika was a 2015 graduate of Buckhannon-Upshur High School. She later graduated from West Virginia Junior College in Practical Nursing. She spent most of her career in the nursing field, but also worked as an Assistant Manager at local stores.

Marika was a beautiful, intelligent, ambitious and caring young lady, who loved her two children with all her heart. Her children and family brought much joy to her life. She loved spending time with friends, shopping fishing, and traveling. Her smile would brighten anyone’s day and she was always there to lend a helping hand.

As a child Marika had a lot of involvement in school, sports and activities. She was Vice President of VICA for trade school, lead her cheerleading squad and won many pageants. She was also involved in modeling gymnastics, soccer, track, and the dance squad. She was a member of the girl scouts and Harrison County 4-H, which she loved.

Throughout life she faced struggles from the loss of her father. She stayed strong and never gave up her dedication of loving her family. Marika will be deeply missed by so many but the memories she made with those she loved will carry on in everyone’s heart forever.

Friends will be received for a memorial gathering Sunday, December 4, 2022, at the Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will follow at the funeral home with the Rev. Eugene Helmick and Rev. Dan Vaugh officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the funeral home to help with funeral expenses.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 

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