Phyllis Joan Smith

Phyllis was born on October 7, 1944, in Parsons, West Virginia, to Carl Delinger Funkhouser and Lena Grace Deets Funkhouser. She grew up with a strong sense of faith, family, and quiet determination. Phyllis was a career secretary who served in federal roles alongside her husband, Paul Eugene Smith.

Phyllis and Paul lived in Alice Springs, Australia, for five years and were fortunate enough to travel much of the United States and visit several other countries. Many of those travels were shared with her sister, Alice Carrick, and brother-in-law, Jerry. Together, the four created some wonderful memories along the way.

Phyllis was known for her sharp sense of humor and incredible memory. She always had a story to share and could recall the most unexpected details. Her life was one of continued perseverance and shaped by faith, love, and unfailing dedication to her children and those for whom she cared. Through every challenge, she showed up with grit and resilience.

Phyllis found joy in gospel music, especially The Statler Brothers and The Inspirations; the color green, opals (her birthstone); and the thrill of a good sale or thrift store find. She loved oak trees, spending a quiet evening with a good book, and putting together a perfectly coordinated outfit—often finished with a great pair of high heels.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband Paul Eugene Smith, her brother Carl Bervin Funkhouser, and her brother-in-law Gerald Neil Carrick.

Phyllis is survived by her family, including her children: Christine Pomnitz; Richard Pomnitz and his wife, Lisa; Chad Pomnitz; and Lori Pomnitz. She also leaves behind her sister; Alice Louise Carrick, six grandchildren, including Ashley Dale, Kyle Pomnitz, Seth Pomnitz, Rachel Pomnitz, Josh Pomnitz, and Sarah Pomnitz; and one great-grandchild, Henry Dale.

In addition, she will be lovingly remembered by Paul’s children: Bob Smith and his wife, Kimberly; Glen Smith and his wife, Rose; Tim Smith and his wife, Donna; and Annemarie Baker and her husband, Ray. Her grandchildren on Paul’s side include David Smith, Loribeth Smith, Tylinn Smith, Katelyn Baker, and Hannah Smith and great-grandchildren Jacob Smith and Warren Stephens.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 11 a.m. at McConnell Funeral Home Chapel.

Phyllis and Paul supported St Jude's Children Hospital of which Phyllis continued to do after Paul's passing. In lieu of flowers, it is requested by the family that donations be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital to carry on the support that both Mrs. Smith and her husband Paul were committed to.

http://www.stjude.org