Phyllis H. Kelsey

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear……Surrounded by her family, Phyllis H. Kelsey, 79, of Smithboro, passed away on Monday, June 13, 2016 at Lourdes Hospital following a period of declining health. Phyllis was born on August 20, 1936 in Sayre, Pa one of three children of Archie Corey and Alice (Woodruff) Howey. As a child, Phyllis spent her youth in Barton and was a graduate of Owego Free Academy class of 1954. Phyllis was a long time phone operator for the Bell Telephone Company. A treasure to her family, Phyllis enjoyed spending time camping and boating at the lake with them, watching the sunsets and sharing stories around the campfire. An avid reader and bowler, she also enjoyed knitting, crocheting and quilting. The holidays were complete when Phyllis shared her love of baking pies although her greatest pleasure was being able to spend time with her granddaughter Michaela. Phyllis was a member of the Owego Moose, the Nichols American Legion, the Tioga Center Alumni Association and enjoyed fellowship with The Sassy Lassies chapter of the Red Hats. Her smile and caring ways will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Phyllis is survived by her husband Rodney; her son Barry Hyatt; daughter Lisa Hyatt; sister Linda (Roger) Pyhtila; brothers Jerry (Jackie) Howey; Gene (Jackie) Howey; her grandchildren: Michaela, Bradly and Michelle; several nieces, nephews and their families also survive. Phyllis was predeceased by her son Michael; and husbands: Howard E. Hyatt, Jr. and Richard Smith. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Saturday, June 18th from 10 - 12 pm at the Tioga Center United Methodist Church. A memorial service and celebration of her life will follow at 12 pm with Pastor Mary Jean Simonin, officiating. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting our website at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial gift to the Sassy Lassy's c/o Mrs. Lois Gowan, 84 Cady Ave., Apt 205, Nichols, NY 13812 in loving memory of Phyllis H. Kelsey. Previous Events Visitation JUN 18. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (ET) Tioga Center United Methodist Church Tioga Center, NY Loading map Service JUN 18. 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (ET) Tioga Center United Methodist Church Tioga Center, NY Loading map