The Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge announces the death of Mrs. Phyllis Reed Hammond, age 93, of the Heritage Health Care Center passed away on January 19, 2009 following an extended illness. Born in Fall River, MA, she was the daughter of the late Rudolph and Florence Sykes Reed. Mrs. Hammond graduated from Smith College in Massachusetts with a Masters Degree. She was a member of the daughters of the American Revolution and the PEO. Mrs. was talented concert pianist having played for the New York Ballet and at Carnegie Hall. She also taught piano lessons for many years. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Rebecca Hammond of Blue Ridge, GA; daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Brian Nichols of Grandville, OH; two grandsons, Adam and Ian Nichols of Grandville, OH.A memorial service is planned for a later date. For those desiring memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Hammond may be made to the humane society or to the second chance pet rescue. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge is in charge of the arrangements.