Phyllis M. Borton

Phyllis M. Borton, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Indianapolis, IN on July 8, 2025, the age of 97. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on November 23, 1927, she was the beloved daughter of Lawrence Sanford Phelps and Marion Fay Chamberlain, the youngest of three siblings. Phyllis was raised in Royal Oak, Michigan, graduated from Royal Oak High School in 1945 and later attended Detroit Business University, preparing for a career marked by intelligence and dedication.

Phyllis began her professional life with Michigan Bell Telephone in office administration for the Medical Department. After World War II, she worked at Bendix Aviation Corp (South Bend, Indiana) as a legal secretary in the Patent Department. She also worked for Allison Aviation Corp in Indianapolis, contributing to the aviation industry with office administration related to jet engine testing.

On November 4, 1950, Phyllis married Robert Gene Borton, with whom she shared a 65 year marriage. She was blessed with a good husband who provided and cared for her throughout the years. Together, they raised three children and she demonstrated her devotion to family throughout her life. During her years in Pennsylvania, Phyllis served as Cub and Girl Scout Leaders, instilling values of service and leadership in young boys and girls. After raising her children, she returned to the workforce part-time in retail, bringing her knowledge, skills and expertise in color, design and fabric to customers at Laura Ashley.

A woman of quiet strength and intellectual curiosity, Phyllis was a proud descendant of Mayflower passenger James Chilton, and a member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Questers, Inc. (a national antique study organization), and the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. These affiliations contributed to her sharp mind, deep sense of heritage, appreciation of history and creative expressions. She was recognized as an exceptional needlework artist, with one of her pieces featured on the cover of a national needlepoint magazine.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Janis Elaine Borton of Denver, CO and Rebecca Ann Erdel (William), grandsons Major William Bradley Erdel, (Rachel) and Dr. Blake Erdel (Kate), all of Indianapolis. She took delight in her four great grandchildren, Chloe, Audrey, Evan and Archie. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Gene Borton, and son, Thomas William Borton.

Her life was a rich tapestry of creativity, tradition, and love—woven with care, purpose, and enduring grace. Her legacy lives on in the lives of those she loved so deeply.

A private family graveside service and burial will be held at Earlham Cemetery, Richmond, IN.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Phyllis' memory may be made to Marquette Employee Appreciation Fund, 8140 Township Line Road, Apt 2201, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260; and Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc, 1105 Chesapeake Cove Drive, Lafayette, Indiana 47909.