11/07/2025
Obituary For Jolene Ann Philp
In Loving Memory of Jolene Ann Philp
Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, Friend, and Heart of Our Family
February 25, 1949 – October 23, 2025
With great sadness, we share that Jolene Ann Philp died peacefully at her home on October 23,
2025, at the age of 76.
Jolene was born in Gridley, CA, on February 25, 1949, to Leon and Ella Falsone. She graduated from Gridley High School in 1967 and continued her education in Business at Yuba College in Marysville, CA, where she studied for two years. She was of Catholic faith and lived her beliefs through compassion, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community.
On April 3, 1982, Jolene married the love of her life, Ray Philp. Their marriage of 43 years was a testament to enduring love, partnership, and mutual respect. After they were married, they welcomed their only child, Raelene, who became the light of their lives. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, warmth, and countless cherished memories.
Jolene dedicated 36 years of service to the United States Forest Service, where her work ethic and kindness left a lasting impact. She had a deep love for sports and was a passionate fan of the SF 49ers, Sac Kings, and SF Giants. She also loved gambling at the casino, where she enjoyed the excitement of a lucky streak and the thrill of the occasional win. She loved playing cards and games with family and friends, and going to lunch with her friends, treasuring the joy and
laughter those moments brought.
She was also a gifted chef and baker, known especially for her incredible Italian dishes that
brought comfort and joy to everyone who tasted them. Her kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and togetherness. Her love of family was a passion of hers, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with those she cherished.
Jolene is survived by her loving husband Ray of Willows, CA; her sister Carolyn (Al) Buendia of San Rafael, CA; her daughter Raelene Washington of Willows, CA; her beloved grandson Isaiah Washington of Willows, CA, whom she adored; her sister-in-law Donna Philp; her brother-in-law Darryl Philp (Lisa) of Laurens, IA; and all of her nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Ella Falsone, and numerous aunts, uncles, brothers-in-law, cousins, and dear friends.
A viewing will be held on November 5, 2025, at FD Sweet and Son Mortuary, 114 N Shasta St., Willows, CA, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m, Rosary at 6pm.
Tentatively: Catholic Mass Service will follow on November 6, 2025, at St. Monica's Parish, 1129 W Wood Street, Willows, CA, at 10 a.m., with a reception to follow.
Interment will be held on November 7, 2025, beginning at 10 a.m., at The Gridley-Biggs Cemetery, 2023 State Highway 99, Gridley, CA. The family would like to give special thanks to all the friends and relatives for their love, kindness, and support during this difficult time.
Though we mourn her passing, we find comfort in knowing that Jolene’s greatest passion was
fulfilled by the love of her family and friends. In her memory, we remain united—and we will
continue to love as she loved.