Phyllis Jean Dansby Fisher, PhD., a dedicated librarian, talented musician, and beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. She was born on November 25th, 1933, to Cunie B. Dansby and Annyebelle Turner Dansby in Kilgore, Texas. Phyllis was a twin, born first to her brother Jimmy Dansby.
Phyllis received her early education in Kilgore Public Schools, excelling academically. She graduated from Kilgore High School, where her father served as the principal. Known for her musical talents, Phyllis attended Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, on a music scholarship. It was at Spelman that she met Winder Everette Durante Fisher, who attended Morehouse College. After graduating, Winder joined the Navy, and Phyllis pursued further education at Atlanta University, where she later earned her Master's Degree.
In 1956, Phyllis and Winder were married, and from their union came three children, Beryle, Frank, and Christopher. Phyllis was a devoted wife and mother, always supporting her family with love and encouragement.
Driven by her passion for education, Phyllis continued her academic pursuits and earned her PhD from the University of Texas in Austin. She embarked on a successful career in library automation, working tirelessly to modernize the libraries in the New York Public Schools until her retirement.
A woman of faith, Phyllis was a devoted member of Kilgore Baptist Church and later joined Westminster United Presbyterian Church in West Islip, NY. She was an active choir member and enthusiastically participated in church activities.
Phyllis was passionate about her interests, particularly music and literature. She was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed attending the American Library Association Conferences. She was an annual supporter of the Spellman College Annual Fund and an advocate for postpartum depression awareness.
Phyllis was a social butterfly who touched the lives of many with her warmth and kindness. Throughout her life, she made countless friends from all over the country, forming deep and lasting connections. Whether through her work, her involvement in church activities, or her participation in professional conferences, Phyllis had a gift for bringing people together. Her genuine interest in others and her infectious laugh ensured that wherever she went, she was surrounded by love and laughter.
In 2019, Phyllis fell ill, and she returned to Texas, where she was surrounded by her loving family until her passing. She will be remembered for her kindness, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her family and community.
Phyllis Jean Dansby Fisher, PhD. was preceded in death by her parents and her dear son Frank Fisher. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Beryle Fisher Server, and son Christopher Fisher, grandchildren Nia Fisher, William Server, Leda Kolbowski Fisher, and Daniel Kolbowski Fisher, great-grandchildren Duranted Fisher, Corey Wallace, and Olivia Server, and great-great-grandchild Zion P. Fisher.
Phyllis, you asked for so little but gave so very much and will live forever in our hearts. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4
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