Remembering and Acknowledging Phillis Symons
Fundraising page for Phillis Symons memorial, remembering and acknowledging Phillis, who at aged 17 was murdered in 1931.
Wellington
In June 2024 we shared the story about Phillis Symons’ life, and her untimely death when she was murdered in 1931 by George Coates. Since her death Phillis has been in an unmarked grave, alongside her mother Mary who passed away in 1947. The story generated a great amount of public support in fundraising for a memorial for Phillis. Since that time, we have been working on locating the closest living family members and working with the council to make sure we could provide a memorial for her that was appropriate and acknowledged Phillis.
We are excited to share that in partnership with the family that we are now in the process of fundraising for a memorial for Phillis and her mother. We want to provide a suitable headstone and surround for the plot.
About us
Supporting the preservation, protection, public interest and enhancement of the heritage, recreational and ecological aspects of the Karori Cemetery.
Use of funds
All the money raised will go towards the headstone and surround of the plot.
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Latest update
Headstone Design 26 September 2025
Excited to share the headstone design that not only acknowledges Phillis but also her wide family.
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