of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Punta Gorda, Florida, age 93, passed away Monday, October 23, 2023, after a brief illness. She was born August 10, 1930, in Franklin, Ohio, the daughter of Millard Roger and Mary Hastings (MacPhee) Fitch.
Phyllis and her five siblings grew up in her father’s Church of the Nazarene in Norwood, Ohio where she developed a deep love and appreciation for gospel music and the Word of God. It was there that she met her husband of nearly 76 years, Thomas. They were married on November 10, 1947 and he survives. Phyllis and Tom raised their three children in Chelsea, Michigan and they also survive. Son Thomas (Hazel) McGaw of Grass Lake; daughters Janice (Larry) Gaken of Chelsea, and Patricia (Brad) McGibney of Temperance as well as six grandchildren Erin Knott, Evan (Ann) Chiumino-Knott, Adam (Marina) Knott, Thomas McGaw IV, Catherine (Kelly) Richmond, Michael McGibney; six great-grandchildren Alexis, Alivia, Helen, Lauren, Seamus, and Philip; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, five siblings, and grandson Philip McGibney.
Tom and Phyllis built and enjoyed a cottage for several years on Indian Lake at the Nazarene Campground in Vicksburg, Michigan and spent most of their retirement years in Florida, where they enjoyed boating, hosting family and friends, and antiquing. Prior to retiring, Phyllis owned and operated the consignment shop “Mrs. Dusenberry’s” in downtown Chelsea and later became the first Volunteer Coordinator at Chelsea Retirement Community, where Phyllis and Tom have made their home for the past five years.
Phyllis was mischievous and beyond charismatic. She was a master storyteller and loved to laugh. Phyllis was always up for an adventure and was often planning events. Later in life, she took up making beaded jewelry, fulfilling her artistic desires.
A funeral service will be held Friday, October 27, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Friday, from noon until 1p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association 25200 Telegraph Rd. Suit 100 Southfield, Michigan 48033. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
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