BOB & NANCY PHILLIPS NAMED AUTUMNFEST GRAND MARSHALS

Woonsocket – State Representative of District 51, Bob Phillips and retired Woonsocket Physical Education Teacher, Nancy Phillips (Husband & Wife) have been selected as the Grand Marshals of 2023 Autumnfest Celebration by the Autumnfest Steering Committee. 

“I am surprised, shocked and befuddled,” said Nancy Phillips when the announcement was made.  As she wiped tears from her eyes Phillips went on to say, “I am happy and overwhelmed with his honor.  I look forward to all the Autumnfest Grand Marshal activities.”

Nancy continues to substitute teach within the Woonsocket School System.  She also volunteers 4 days a week at New Beginnings.  Nancy is also the President of the Woonsocket Chapter of the Lions Club. Nancy is a past member of the Autumnfest Steering Committee serving on the committee for more than 30 years. 

“This is the biggest honor in the city,” said Bob Phillips when he heard their names.  It’s humbling to know that the Autumnfest committee thinks you deserve this recognition.”  Not only is Bob a State Representative he also is a full-time substitute teacher within the Woonsocket School system.  Bob also is a past member of the Autumnfest Steering Committee.  He spent 18 continuous yeas on the committee.  His last 2 years were in 2009 & 2010 where he was the Autumnfest General Chairperson.  

The tradition has become to surprise the Grand Marshal recipient with the announcement.  This year Bob & Nancy were at The Broaster House Restaurant for a Lions Club meeting on June 5, 2023 when the current Autumnfest Steering Committee arrived and Judy Sullivan, Autumfest General Chairperson made the announcement.

Sullivan said, “It was an easy pick this year.  Bob and Nancy have a strong sense of family and a strong sense of community.  Well-deserved for a couple that puts their heart and soul into this city.”

Bob & Nancy Phillips will be honored at the Autumnfest Kick-Off Party.  That event will be held in September of this year.