Leila Hilliard Phifer, 68, of Edgemoor, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026. Born on August 30, 1957, Leila was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and devoted member of her community.
Leila was the daughter of the late Arnold Brezene Hilliard and the late Margaret Louise Montgomery Hilliard. She was a member of Trinity Church of the Nazarene, where her faith and love for her church family were an important part of her life.
Above all else, Leila fiercely loved her family, friends, church family, and community. She had a heart that made people feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. Her presence brought warmth and joy to the lives of those around her, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of the many people who were blessed to know her.
Leila is survived by her sons, Tim Phifer Jr. (Lacey) and Nicholas Phifer (Jennifer); her grandchildren, Josh Courtney, Johnny Courtney, Ivy Phifer, Rilan Phifer, Mason Phifer, and Emmie Phifer; her son-in-law, Gary Courtney (Lisa); her stepmother, Sarah Hilliard; her sisters, Vivian Evans and Elizabeth Reister (Mark); and numerous extended family members and dear friends who will miss her dearly.
In addition to her parents, Leila was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tim Phifer Sr.; her daughter, Tangela “Missy” Courtney; her brothers, Darnell Hilliard and A.B. Hilliard; and her grandson, Jermey Courtney.
A graveside service celebrating Leila’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Grandview Memorial Park – Cherry Road, with Pastor Jim Bentley officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations may be made in Leila’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Leila’s love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to the people she held dear will never be forgotten. Though she is no longer with us, the love she gave so freely will continue to live on through her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Condolences may be made at www.greenefuneralhome.net