Phyllis Crager

Phyllis, a resident of Westport, Connecticut, passed away on January 31, 2023 at 96 years of age.

Born in Pekin, Illinois, she was the daughter of John and Christine Houston. She graduated from Pekin Community High School and was employed there after graduation as a switchboard operator for a short time. She spent most of her life as a first-rate homemaker and great cook. As a devoted wife and mother, she enjoyed taking care of her house and family. Once the family was grown, she turned to developing her creative side. She took up crafting and learned to play the organ. She loved her daily walks and appreciated nature. Phyllis had many friends and enjoyed her pinocle club.

Leaving Illinois after nearly 60 years to relocate to Bristol, Rhode Island was challenging but Phyllis settled in and enjoyed being closer to her son and his family in Westport, Connecticut. While in Rhode Island, Phyllis served as first mate on her husband’s boat and hosted the annual Fourth of July party after the parade.

Having a strong faith, Phyllis was a member of the Second Reformed Church in Pekin, Illinois for most of her life and more recently the Saugatuck Congregational Church in Westport. Right up until her death, Phyllis enjoyed time with her friends, both at the Westport Senior Center and going out to lunch to with them. She remained fiercely independent until her last day and just last month she took an Uber to the dentist. Possessing a positive attitude and a great smile, Phyllis drew others to her. She loved unconditionally and her family is grateful for the time they had with her. They cherish many wonderful memories and will miss her.

Phyllis is survived by her four children: Tim Crager and his wife Lynn; Christie Crager, Sally Crager; and Susan Lelli and her husband David; ten grandchildren and four four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 64 years, Elmer Crager.

A memorial service for friends and family will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 3pm at the Saugatuck Congregational Church in Westport. In lieu of flowers, donations in Phyllis’s name may be made to the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport, Connecticut 06880 or the Saugatuck Congregational Church, 245 Post Road East, Westport, Connecticut 06880.