Aurelia E. Carpenter, age 87, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Portage, passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at Hospice of the Valley in Tempe, Arizona.  She was born in Hammond, Indiana on April 1, 1930 to the late Thomas and Elizabeth (Nee Handley) Phillips.  Aurelia graduated from Portage High School in 1948.  She worked for many years at Illinois Bell, later AT&T, as a supervisor.  She enjoyed her retirement in Arizona and will be remembered as a cheerful and loving mother, sister, and friend.

Aurelia is survived by two sons, Kevin (Debbie) and Bryan (Cathy); six grandsons; two granddaughters; three great grandchildren; brother, Thomas (Marilyn); and numerous nieces, nephews and other loving family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph and sister, Nancy Jo Clem.

A committal service in the chapel at Calvary Cemetery, 2701 Willowdale Rd. Portage, Indiana 46368 will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 11:00 am with Rev. Charles R. Strietelmeier officiating.

For more information, please call 219-762-3013.  Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .