Obituary: Audrey Louise Phelan

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Audrey Louise Phelan

Audrey Phelan died, surrounded by family, in her home in Woodland Hills, having just celebrated her 90th birthday.

Audrey’s life took her from Massachusetts to California, from Van Nuys to Malibu to Ventura.

She was the youngest of five children born to Alice and Frank Ball in Dorchester, Mass. Her siblings Alice, Muriel, Bernice and Robert all preceded her in death. Married at age 20 to Paul Phelan, she set out for Alaska with Paul. They got as far as Santa Monica, where they grew to love the warm weather and beach life. Audrey and Paul moved to Paradise Cove in midlife and enjoyed many idyllic days on the beach, on the pier and at the Sandcastle. 

“While she spent many years without her beloved Paul (who died in 1979), Audrey found comfort in swimming every day, regardless of temperature,” a loved one shared. “She also enjoyed her close circle of neighbors and friends.” 

Her work life included serving as assistant to the Dean of Pepperdine Law School. As a longtime community member, her volunteer life ranged from president of the Women’s Republican Club, Meals on Wheels, Our Lady of Malibu Guild, and the Malibu Adamson House and Museum. She spent many happy hours as a docent, telling visitors about the rich history and culture of Malibu. After 30 years in Malibu, at age 80, Audrey moved to Ventura Marina Harbor. Her last year was spent in Woodland Hills with her daughter Kathi. 

“She lived there comfortably, still reading the paper every day, watching CNN, debating politics and enjoying her glass of wine,” a loved one shared. “Audrey was gracious, giving, kind, resourceful, strongly opinionated with a wicked sense of sarcastic humor and highly regarded by all who knew her. She will be truly missed.” 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Malibu Adamson House Foundation by visiting donate@adamson.org or mailing a donation to this address: 

     P.O. Box 291

     Malibu, CA 90265

A Mass will be held on Friday, Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the San Fernando Mission in Mission Hills, Calif. Interment will follow at the Mission Hills cemetery.