Phylis Ann Hachtmeyer

Phylis Ann Hachtmeyer, 78, of Fort Smith, passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. She leaves a legacy of selflessness, generosity, compassion, and community spirit. Phylis was born on November 5, 1946, in Rock Spring, WY to the late Charles E. Chaney and Annabelle Phillips Chaney. Her parents instilled a strong work ethic in her and she never shied away from hard work. Phylis retired from Sparks Regional Medical Center, where she worked as an ER admitting clerk for 20 years. She later found joy in hospitality at a local hotel where she became a friendly and familiar face to weary travelers, always ready to offer a warm welcome and a listening ear.

Phylis never met a stranger in her life, and her genuine kindness and respect towards everyone she encountered made her beloved by all. She treated each person with dignity, regardless of their status or title; to Phylis, every individual was equal and deserving of love. Phylis loved her family, friends, workmates, and her community, and they will continue to remember and love her.

A member of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, Phylis shared her God-given talents with her congregation on occasion as well as throughout the community including other churches, schools, and the Fort Smith Little Theatre.

She was a devoted mother to her three daughters, Adina Willis of Greenwood, Samantha Ann Lee (John) of Fort Smith, and Summer Dulinsky (Tim) of Houlton, Maine, and her son, Eric Hachtmeyer of Alma. She is survived by two sisters, Jan Wilkes of Dallas, TX, and Judy Shaffer (Charles) of Holly Springs, NC, as well as her stepson, Fredrick Joseph Hachtmeyer, IV. Phylis is also survived by two nephews, Brian Opitz of Holly Springs, NC, and Bradley Opitz of Clovis, CA, along with 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Phylis is preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick Joseph Hachtmeyer, III, and a brother-in-law, Ronnie Wilkes. A memorial graveside service will be held Monday, July 28th 2025 at 9am at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Reception will follow at 10am in the Welcome Center at the First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith. Cremation is under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith.