Phyllis Mae Franz

Phyllis was born on May 22, 1924 in Elyria, OH, the daughter of Walter and Katherine (Stick) Schuster.

Phyllis taught 1st grade in Ohio and at Springfield District 186 until she married Gene on May 5, 1951 in Brownhelm, OH, then retired to be a homemaker. Phyllis often played the piano and organ at church. They were most recently members of Hope Evangelical Free Church in Springfield. She and Gene spent 61 years of marriage together until he preceded her in death on January 4, 2013. Also preceding her in death were her parents, sister and granddaughter Tiffanie Ferguson.

Phyllis is survived by her children, Kathy (Tim) Ferguson of Oglethorpe, GA, Marybeth (Tom) Reamsnyder of Richmond, VA, James (Janette) Franz of Chatham, IL; 5 grandchildren, T.J. (Kate), Cari, Tricia, Abby, and Kate, a sister-in-law Pat of FL and several nieces and nephews.

Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 E. Allen, Springfield, is in charge of arrangements. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 1, 2013 at 11 am at Southern View Chapel, 4500 S. 2nd St., Springfield, IL 62703. The Rev. Gary Gilley and Rev. Tim Ferguson will lead the celebration of her life. A visitation will be held from 10 am until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Phyllis’ name may be made to Brazil Gospel Fellowship Mission, 125 W. Ash St, Springfield, IL 62704 or Washington Street Mission, 408 N. 4th St, Springfield, IL 62702.

Please visit the online obituary at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.