Phyllis Irene Pacholski

After a fall and brief hospitalization, Phyllis Irene Pacholski, PT passed away on February 13, 2026. Her final moments were spent peacefully in her home in Port Charlotte, FL with children Lisa, Susan, and Michael at her side.

Phyllis earned a BS in Physical Therapy from Marquette University. She was best known for her love of family, fondness for her Decatur Memorial Hospital co-workers, and dedication to her patients, especially children with whom she was kind, patient and encouraging as she worked to improve their abilities. Following retirement, she continued work with the Visiting Nurses Association and championed charities including the March of Dimes, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and St. Jude.

At home, Phyllis was a superb manager, with recipes, daily activities, family birthdays and holiday plans coordinated flawlessly. She took great pride in her yard and enjoyed planting begonia and impatiens each spring. She most enjoyed traveling the world in search of beautiful beaches with her husband of 61 years, Dr. Richard Pacholski, who passed away in October 2023. Grandchildren were a source of great joy for Phyllis and were the lucky recipients of all the gifts and attention they could possibly desire. She and Dick delighted in family vacations to Wild Dunes, Boca Grande, Disney World, and the coast of Maine. She never missed a recital or graduation, and as the grandkids grew older, excursions included Chicago, London, and Paris to enjoy theatre productions, museum visits and shopping.

Phyllis also loved shopping and spending time with best friend and colleague Karen Hill. She cherished special moments with son Michael, who moved to Florida to live and care for her, so she could remain in her home. He regularly took her to Fisherman’s Village, Farmers’ Markets, and the Peace River Botanical Garden. Visits with her great-grandchildren brightened her days.

Phyllis is survived by children Lisa Pacholski Gillen (Dan) of Punta Gorda, FL, Susan Pacholski of Chevy Chase, MD, and Michael Pacholski of Port Charlotte, FL; grandchildren Jayne Williamson (Tommy), Mitchell Gillen (Juliana), Rafe Purvis, and Lucy Purvis; great-grandchildren Thomas and Tharin Williamson, and Isabella Oliviera Gillen. A private ceremony will be held at Hope Eternal Gardens in Punta Gorda.

Special thanks to Dr. Patrick McFadden and the staff at Fawcett Wound Care for their expertise and encouragement, as they had nearly completed treatment of Phyllis’ leg wound after years of challenges, setbacks, and, finally, near success. She was so looking forward to ringing the victory bell.

In memory of Phyllis, please consider a donation to St. Jude (Stjude.org) or the Ehlers-Danlos Society (Ehlers-danlos.com).