She was born on November 25, 1926, in Cortland, NY, the daughter of Franklin Hobart and Gwendolyn (Stewart) Hersey. Phyllis married Clifford D. Redding on August 23, 1947. He preceded her in death on August 16, 2007.
Phyllis graduated from New York’s Cortland High School in 1945, and earned her bachelor’s degree from Houghton College, NY, in 1948, where she majored in music performance with an emphasis in piano. She went on to teach public school music from 1950-1952 in Wilmore, KY, while her husband was in seminary. Phyllis later worked at Amcore Bank in Woodstock, IL, where she was monitor of the safe deposit boxes for a number of years. The family moved down to Springfield, IL, in 1994. She was a member of Hope Church in Springfield, where she was involved in the drama group and small group until 2018. Phyllis had a deep commitment to church music – organ, piano, and choir. She loved volunteering with her husband at Sangamon Auditorium as an usher. Phyllis was talented at painting, playing the organ and piano, clay sculpting, and theater. She enjoyed anything relating to nature, whether it be animals, etc. Phyllis was artistic, musical, and a loving caretaker of her family. Her family and friends were very important to her.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Franklin Hobart Hersey II.
Phyllis is survived by her children, Jonathon (Selwyn Margaret) Redding of Springfield and Dr. Emilie Redding of Petersburg; and several nieces and nephews.
Private services will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Springfield Fine Arts Association, 700 North 7th Street, Springfield, IL 62702.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.
