the Life and Legacy of
Muriel E. Phipps-Rhyne

Muriel E. Phipps-Rhyne was born on March 1, 1933, in Washington, D.C., to Elder Frederick Charles Phipps and Ethel Maude Malcolm Phipps. She spent her early years in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she completed her primary and secondary education, graduating from Woodward High School.

Muriel pursued her post-secondary education at Emmanuel Missionary College (EMC), now Andrews University, and later became a licensed practical nurse. She continued her academic journey at several institutions and ultimately earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work, graduating cum laude from Alabama A&M University. Her academic excellence was recognized through induction into Phi Beta Kappa, and she completed additional graduate-level coursework in geriatrics.

Muriel dedicated her professional life to serving others, working with organizations focused on children and families, nutrition assistance, and community development. She served her community for more than two decades in social services and continued her work in a consultative role following retirement. Her commitment to public service extended into volunteerism, including support of senior centers, community health initiatives, and disaster relief efforts.

Deeply committed to faith and service, Muriel served as the receptionist for the Oakwood University Church for over forty years. Following the passing of her husband, Dr. Joseph A. Rhyne III, she played an instrumental role in helping to institute and forge the Rhyne Medical Symposium, later renamed the Rhyne–Duncan Medical Symposium. Annually the symposium continues to bring together medical professionals from across the globe for training, professional development, and the spiritual edification of future STEM professionals. The symposium stands as a lasting testament to her vision, perseverance, and devotion to healing ministries.

Muriel also held leadership roles in civic and service organizations and supported humanitarian efforts such as Habitat for Humanity, receiving national acknowledgment for her contributions. She was also an active and dedicated member of the King’s Daughters, where she served as a treasurer. This organization is committed to supporting young people in their educational pursuits. Through mentorship, advocacy, and encouragement, Muriel invested deeply in the next generation, believing education to be both a calling and a pathway to service.

Muriel was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Joseph A. Rhyne III, and by five of her six siblings: Malita Leonedes Herbert, Ethel Wilhelmena Stewart, Chita Navista Sanders-Taylor, Elder St. Clare Monteith Phipps II, and Elder J. Malcolm Phipps. She is survived by her brother, Frederick Charles Phipps Jr. (Beverly Phipps); her children, Toye Rhyne, Joseph Rhyne IV (Brenda Michele Rhyne), and Tina Rhyne-White (Eric White); along with extended family, godchildren, and a wide circle of friends across the country.

Known to her closest friends, nieces, nephews, and godchildren as Polly, Muriel will forever remain in our hearts and leaves a legacy of joy, hospitality, and Christian love. We look forward with hope to seeing her again in that great getting-up morning upon Christ’s return.