Phillis R. Phelps

It is with sad and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Phillis R. Phelps. Phillis passed away on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025, at Sunnyside Astria Hospital.

Phillis was born in Prosser, Washington on August 16, 1939, to Lillian and Denver Bailey. She was the firstborn of five children. Phillis attended Prosser schools and graduated in 1957. While working at the Princess Theatre in Prosser as a concession girl, she met a recently discharged, handsome sailor, Jack Phelps. They fell in love and were married soon after.

In November of 1959, Phillis and Jack welcomed their son, Jack Jr., twenty-five months later, their daughter Valerie was born, completing their family. They made their home in Prosser, Washington until moving to Grandview, Washington in 1964. Phillis was a loving mother to her children and found immense joy in raising them. She attended all her children’s sports and school activities. She was always on the sidelines, cheering her children on.

Phillis also found joy in artistry, which became one of her favorite hobbies. Later, she sold Sarah Coventry jewelry, and her enthusiasm and social skills helped her succeed in this role. Phillis and her husband Jack were Lion’s Club members and often helped at the Yakima Valley Junior Fairs.

In 1972, following many years of saving, the family relocated to Grandview, Washington, where they established their final residence; Phillis remained there until her passing. After years as a stay-at-home mother, Phillis rejoined the workforce and became a florist at City Floral in Grandview. She was exceptionally talented in this position, thoroughly enjoyed her work, and took immense pride in it. After working as a florist for about three years, Phillis found her true calling as a bus driver for the Grandview School District. After three years of driving for Grandview School District, she transferred to the Sunnyside School District where she drove bus for another twenty-five plus years, until her retirement. Phillis often volunteered for field trips and enjoyed watching the children grow up, graduate, and move on in life. She made many friends during those years working in Sunnyside.

Phillis and her husband were also members of the local VFW POST 6929. She and her husband made many more friends there and enjoyed the camaraderie. Phillis was also a member of the ladies’ auxiliary and held elected positions, both at district and state levels. Before her husband’s passing, they traveled frequently, taking trips back to Arkansas, Jack’s home state and to Washington, D.C., as well as other destinations. Phillis also enjoyed traveling to visit her sisters and friends on the west side of the state.

Phillis demonstrated exceptional diligence as a housekeeper and was dedicated to maintaining her residence. Following her husband's passing, she continued to care for the property, implementing numerous enhancements both indoors and outdoors.

Phillis lived to the age of 86. She is survived by her son, Jack Phelps Jr. (Kaci), her daughter, Valerie Brendemihl (Steve), her sisters, Lynn Hand (Larry) and Susan Steuermann, her brothers, Timothy Bailey and Richard Long, her grandsons, Cole Phelps and Jamie Phelps, and her great-grandchildren, Emmalynn Caudill and Michael Denend. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Phelps Sr.; her parents, Lillian Long and Denver Bailey; and her brother-in-law, Mike Steuermann.

Phillis will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, and unwavering support for her family and friends, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. She will be greatly missed by her family who loved her dearly.

Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA  with Inurnment of ashes to follow at the East Prosser Cemetery.  Those wishing to sign Phillis online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com    Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. 

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