Cheryl Crosby Phillips
Where Roots Run Deep and Hooves Roam Free
April 2026 Issue
Story & Photography
by Jacie Elizabeth Millen
Cheryl Crosby Phillips believes animals find their way to the people who “need” them, just as much as the animals need these people. Tucked beneath the sweeping oaks of Bluffton, on the same land her grandparents once owned and lovingly passed down, Cheryl has built more than a home—she’s created a sanctuary.
What began as a deep love for horses has quietly grown into a nonprofit rescue, Grace Farm Too, the second location of Grace Farms, that now shelters a lively, unlikely family: 15 horses including 3 miniature horses, chickens, goats, sheep, a rabbit, cats, and even Duke—the farm’s famously wire-hairy pig with the ability to sit on command for a taste of a delicious apple. Robin Boeke, her partner at the rescue lives in Islandton and runs Grace Farm in that location.
Each animal has a story, and Cheryl, with her steadfast patience and sincere empathy, has made it her life’s work to give unwanted or homeless animals’ stories a softer ending.
“I’ve always felt things deeply,” Cheryl said. She’s the kind of person who notices what others might overlook—the subtle limp, the hesitant step, the quiet withdrawal of an animal that’s learned not to trust. It’s this sensitivity that defines her. A natural empath, Cheryl doesn’t just care for animals, she understands them.
Her connection to horses, in particular, runs generations deep. Inspired by her mother, Joyce Crosby, who was quite a horsewoman, Cheryl grew up with an appreciation for their strength, grace, and emotional intelligence. That early bond has never left her. Today, it forms the heart of everything she does. Noble, one of her more recent additions, has a name more special than most. He was named after Joyce’s first horse, as a beautiful gesture to Cheryl’s mom before she passed away almost four years ago. Nine months after her mother, Cheryl’s father, Bubba Crosby, passed away, causing a massive rip in Cheryl’s heart, which despite so much loss, never stopped beating for her cause.
The land itself holds just as much meaning. It’s where Cheryl was raised, where memories of her parents linger in the Lowcountry air. They were married 67 years—a true testament to enduring love, commitment, and family.
Now, 31 years into her own marriage, Cheryl has created a life that mirrors that same devotion. Together with her husband, Dave Phillips, they have raised three children, all of whom have grown up surrounded by animals, open space, and the lessons that come from both.
At the rescue, no two days are the same. Mornings begin early, with feeding, cleaning, and tending to animals that rely on consistency and care. It’s not glamorous work. It’s muddy boots, long days, and major investments—time, emotions, and money. But for Cheryl, it’s never been about recognition; it’s about responsibility. 
Over time, the rescue has become more than just a safe haven for animals, it’s become a place of connection for the community. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the work involved and lives being changed behind the scenes. Children learn compassion. Adults are reminded of it.
As the rescue continues to grow, so does the need to sustain it. Like many nonprofit organizations, Cheryl’s work relies heavily on the generosity of others—those who believe in preserving not only the lives of these animals, but the spirit of a place built upon care, legacy, and heart. Support, whether through donations, resources, or simply spreading awareness, plays a vital role in ensuring that this sanctuary can continue its mission for years to come.
Still, if you ask Cheryl what matters most, she won’t mention numbers or expansion. She’ll talk about the quiet moments—the first time a once-frightened horse allows itself to be touched, or the way Duke trots up for attention like he owns the place. She’ll talk about trust with these beautiful animals, how it’s slowly and sincerely earned, reassuring every animal that crosses her way, that even the most broken spirits can find their way home.
Fun Facts:
Horsey Kisses: Dare, Cheryl’s personal horse, has the best way to show her love-kisses! Ask her for a big smooch, and she will gladly take you up on it!
Shear Exploring: “Mystic,” the only sheep at the farm, was seriously on the lamb, running loose in Bluffton. She ended up at Mystic Bluff Apartments on Bluffton Parkway for two days. Everyone was calling to Cheryl to “go get the ‘rogue goat on the loose.’” So, she loaded up her goats to help lure “Mystic” in, found out she’s actually a sheep, and took her home to live at the farm, where she now loves hanging out with her goat friends.
How to Help: Grace Farm Too is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and heavily relies upon donations from generous contributors. Venmo (Cheryl-Phillips18) or mail a check to 3804 Okatie Highway, Hardeeville, SC 29927.
Plan a Visit: Visitors are welcome: Contact Cheryl by texting or calling 843-247-7120 to arrange a time.