Beloved mother Phyllis Gaylor, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 6, in her sleep. Phyllis Ruth Gaylor, born on the blessed day of Sept. 7, 1947.
She was raised by Elizabeth and Karl Grotheer on the family farm near Pittsburg, KS. Her childhood was centered around family. She grew up with siblings and cousins, graduating high school as a Pittsburg Purple dragon in 1965. She went to college in Pittsburg, and ultimately earned her doctorate from the University of Arkansas. Along the way she became a Member of Mensa and Phi Beta Kappa. She married Vernon Gaylor and went on to become the beloved mother to children Lydia and Patrick. As a young couple Phyllis and Vernon traveled Europe with a small baby Lydia.
Patrick was welcomed when they came back and settled in Missouri. After teaching for several years, Phyllis and Vernon opened a small business in Eureka Springs, Arkansas which she kept for over 30years. Phyllis then moved into real estate in the Eureka Springs area where she is was known for her high ethics and kindness to all. Coming full circle, She returned to the Pittsburg area later in life to be near family and friends in her childhood home. In these last years she has devoted herself to the care of family, and community. Phyllis gave back to her community by substitute teaching, often with special needs children. She has found great joy in the rekindled friendships with her Girlies group. Phyllis also devoted herself to her church. She delighted in serving with the Lutherans women’s WELCA group and serving her neighbors in need at “The Lords Diner”. Phyllis also served on the church council for several years, being council president for two of those years.
This last year Phyllis has joined Lydia and her family in Texas where every moment of her presence has been a blessing.
She is preceded in death by parents Karl and Elizabeth, husband Vernon and brother Douglas and sister Rebecca. Phyllis is survived by her loving siblings Marlena, Elaine, Jane and Martin and their caring families.
Phyllis is also survived by Lydia and husband Todd and Patrick and their wonderful children Nadia, Caius, Micah, Lura and Addison.
A celebration of her life will be held at Saint John Lutheran Church in Pittsburg, KS, Nov. 16 at 11 a.m.
