Marsha Phillips, of Montoursville, a cherished mentor, beloved dance instructor, and legendary baton twirling coach, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, at the age of 83, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born on April 9, 1943, in Williamsport to Milly & Lamar Fowler, Marsha discovered her passion for movement at an early age. This passion grew into a lifelong mission, during which she dedicated over 60 years to teaching dance and coaching baton twirling, leaving an indelible mark on thousands of students throughout South Williamsport and the entire Central PA Region.
Known to her students as “Miss Marsha” or “Coach Marsha”, she was far more than an instructor; she was a second mother, a confidante, and a role model who taught her students to carry themselves with grace, confidence and strength. Whether in the studio or on the field, she taught that if you can dream it and work hard for it, you can achieve it.
Her legacy is defined by her unwavering commitment to her students, ranging from young beginners to elite champions. She founded in 1957 and was the driving force behind P.F.F. “Phillips Fancy Footwork Studios”, which she started in her mother’s basement on Charlotte Avenue in South Williamsport and remains today at its present location of 345 South Market St, South Williamsport PA. It remains a studio that fosters a “family” atmosphere that will last long after the music stops.
Beyond her professional achievements, Marsha was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She brought the same passion to her personal life as she did to her coaching. She was best known for her drill teams “The Marshalettes”, her love of sparkly costumes, traveling with her girls, and her unwavering devotion to the love of her life Lenny “L.P.” Phillips.
Marsha is survived by her loving family, Brother: Mark & Sheila Fowler; Daughters: Alana & Bruce Jones, Alicia & Bruce Trotter, Alyssia & Ronald Wechsler & Almenda Phillips; Grandchildren: Calista Kulp, Brock Jones, Hale Trotter, Alexa Wechsler, Heath Jones, Macie Trotter, Mackenzie Wechsler, Chase Jones, Reese Trotter and Riley Wechsler. She was preceded in death by her parents, Milly & Lamar Fowler and her husband, Leonard “LP” Phillips.
A celebration of life is being planned for Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 PM at the South Williamsport Studio of Phillips Fancy Footwork, 345 Market Street.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hughesville Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc, 5069 Route 220 Hwy, Hughesville. To share a memory or condolence for the family please visit http://www.hughesvillefuneralhome.com
