Miriah Beverly Phillips

Miriah "Riah" Beverly Phillips, age 33, was carried home in peace on March 19th, by her grandparents Russell and Beverly, Uncle Dewey, Aunt Becky, and cousins Jennifer and Breehan.

Born in California, Miriah later made her home in Waupaca, where she built a life surrounded by family and friends who became family. She carried a light that followed her wherever she went - a gentle, old soul with a contagious laugh, a heart that made people feel seen, safe, and deeply loved.

Music was the heartbeat of Riah’s life. She cherished artists like The Avett Brothers, Billy Strings, John Mayer, and Dead & Company. Her happiest moments were spent at live shows, singing, laughing, and being fully present with the people she loved. These were the moments where she felt most at home.

Riah faced a hard and courageous battle with cancer, and passed away surrounded by loved ones. She met each day with strength, grace, and the same light she so freely gave to others.

Her love lives on through her devoted mother and caregiver, Jackie Griffin "Sweetie," whose unwavering strength carried her through every step of her journey, and Randy, her Dad, who played an important role in her early years and whose presence helped guide her path. Riah’s spirit also lives in her chosen family and best friends - Kirstin, Donovan, Hudson, and Mylah Burke; cousin Chelsea and her children Brick, Hazel, and Axel; along with Brenna and family, Korina and family, Kim, Kelly, Jaden and family, Shellady and the entire Udoni family, and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who cherished her dearly.

Riah had a way of making life feel lighter. Whether sharing a laugh, a song, or simply her presence, she left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A celebration of Riah’s life will be held Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 12:00 PM at the Chain Bar Beach House. Friends and family are invited to honor her memory, share stories, and celebrate the beautiful life she lived. In her spirit, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite concert tees and embrace colorful attire - just like she loved most.

Though her time here was far too brief, Riah’s courage, joy, and love endure. Her memory is a ripple that will continue to touch the hearts of all who knew her, carrying her light forward forever. She lives on in every laugh, every song, every shared moment - "you’re gonna live forever in me". "I am a breathing time machine", and in her spirit, "we’ll all float on".

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