Phyllis Wright was born to Harry and Viola Smith, on January 18, 1926, in Cullom, IL.  She went to rest with the Lord on November 22, 2023.

In 1960, Phyllis and her family moved from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago IL and began their military life.  As a military wife, she moved 32 times in 20 years.  She was active in the church where she ministered to young families and soldiers.  Her graciousness was always evident but especially in Germany where she frequently hosted soldiers who had nowhere to go over the holidays.  During this time as a military wife,  she bought a cabin at Iron Creek Lake which became home base for her family, which the family still cherishes.

In retirement, while living in Olympia, WA, Phyllis mobilized a group 30 knitters to make scarves, hats, gloves and baby blankets for the homeless. Over a period of 6 years, there were 10,204 items donated.  Perhaps the tribute below from Ann Thompson, a knitter and yarn supplier, summarizes the thoughts of her co-workers:

'No matter how old Phyllis was or how wonderful a life she had, she will be missed. Phyllis is one of a kind and I have such a great respect for all she did with her knitting group for the needy and homeless.  It takes a special person to be able to recruit so many people to help with the project and be so organized as the project grew and was used for such good. What a blessing to know a woman who made such a difference in life for those less fortunate.  A great example for all of us.'

Phyllis loved walking, swimming at Iron Creek Lake, and occasionally fishing for trout with her sister, June, only to discover removing the hook is not an easy task.  She took great pride the accomplishments of her family. She loved God, her family, and hunting for a bargain. Phyllis was a prayer warrior who has gone to live with her Heavenly Father and left behind unforgettable memories for us to treasure.

She is survived by her sister, June Lahners, sons James A. Wright and Mike Wright, daughter Kathy Wilson, grandkids Andrew Wright, Lauren Kimball, James M. Wright, and great-grandchildren, Miles Wright, Jaxon Wright, and Isla Wright.

Well done, Phyllis.  Be thou at peace.

The family is planning a private final tribute at a later date.

A memorial has been established to support Spearfish Hospital's Greatest Need Fun.  Make checks payable to Monument Health Foundation: Phyllis Wright Memorial: PO Box 600, Rapid City, SD  57709.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com