When I think of my Aunt Phyllis I can safely say I never saw her without a smile, even when the kids weren't behaving as we should! That smile only gave a glimpse into the huge heart and incredible passion she had for helping others. She was instrumental in making our Maui wedding something we will never forget, perhaps the second best day of our lives. For that and many other memories, we are truly and forever grateful. Those of us who are related to or friends with Phyllis are truly blessed. May she rest in peace.

Sadly, we have said our goodbyes to our wonderful Sister and friend, Phyllis. Phyllis was an inspiration to us with her total dedication to helping others, students, friends and family. Always with a smile and a sparkle in her eye, she would  be there to help no matter how difficult the task .We will always remember her kindness ,generosity and thoughtfulness.  Here's to you, Sweetie, we love you!

I remember Mrs. Latimer as my kindergarten teacher.  What fond memories of 1981!  I think her first year at Iolani School was also my first year at Iolani School.  She was always warm and friendly and had a great memory.  Years later she still remembered me and the pen I gave her for Christmas.  How she touched so many lives and remembered such detail of each and every student is amazing and a testament to her dedication as an educator.  Peace to the family and the Iolani ohana.

I am a retired 'Iolani Lower School teacher.  Phyllis taught Kindergarten  most of my 28 years at the school.  I remember her warm and caring way with her students.  They loved her, and I'll never forget when Phyllis was substitute teaching after she had retired, and fourth grader Micah Lau spotted her across campus.  He screamed, "Mrs. Latimer," and raced to her for a hug.  I appreciated Phyllis's youthful spirit.  Even though she was "getting up there" in years," Phyllis was so energetic and vibrant.  Her quick and determined gait showed someone full of spirit and ideas, and much younger than her years.  I thought she would live to be 100!  Phyllis was a role model, and I will miss her.

Phyllis is not only my sister-in-the-Lord, but also a great friend and colleague.  She was the best substitute I have ever had.  She is knowledgeable, insightful, and thorough about my students.  Her cheerful smile, bright clothing, and agile walking are still in my mind.  She is always so understanding and caring, a lady of grace.  I am comforted to know that she is in the presence of our Lord.

"We love you Mrs. Latimer, oh yes we do. We love you Mrs. Latimer, and we'll be true. When you're not with us, we're blue; Mrs. Latimer we love you." we sang this song at her K-Leahi retirement party.

Being on the other side of the campus sometimes we don't get a chance to visit down to the Lower School often.  I remember though, when I did run into Phyllis she was the most gracious person that I know of.  She made you feel so warm with her caring and thoughtful ways.  Always asking how Chris is doing and I could see the excitment in her eyes when we shared a few moments together.  She just loved all the children that came her way and we were so blessed to have been touched by her.  Thank you Phyllis for all your love and caring ways.

Behind K-Leahi's bright red door forever lives happy memories of nap time, the days-of-the-week song, hunting for hidden troll dolls, and one of the most genuine people I've ever met.  Mrs. Latimer warmly welcomed me, and so many others, into the Iolani ohana.  Even as grade school turned into middle school, then high school, Mrs. Latimer never failed to greet me when our paths crossed.  She always wore her best smile, and she always remembered my name (super impressive).  I will never forget Mrs. Latimer's generous spirit and how she sincerely cared for all her children.

Phyllis would arrive at 'Iolani while I was waking up at 6:00 a.m.  I remember thinking, "She is so hard-working, and she greets you with a terrific smile no matter what time of the day she sees you. I hope I am able to be as dedicated and as positive as she for my entire career at 'Iolani."  All the students who experienced her influence were lucky.

Phyllis was one of the most caring and positive people I've known. She smiled with her whole being and it was always great to see that smile whenever she returned after her retirement to substitute. I'll miss her grace.

Aloha Phyllis,
    Seeing your beautiful photo in the bright red dress brings life to wonderful memories!  It seems as though it was just summer school and we were talking during recess duty about the computerized report cards.  We always had trouble with the computer and how much to write.  I know you made all of your students feel like they were on cloud nine, verbally in class or typed on paper.  Your smile was warming and full of love!  You'll be missed on campus by your former fellow teachers, friends, and family.  We will all join you for a visit someday......laughing over great stories.  Be patient, dear friend!  Love Cheri Keefer, Art teacher

Phyllis was one of the first teachers I met at 'Iolani because she was one of my daughter's kindergarten teachers. My daughter is now a sophomore in college, but Phyllis would still take the time to ask me how she is doing in college and we enjoyed many  nice chats reminiscing about how fast time flies and how quickly children grow up. I will always remember Phyllis as one of the kindest and most gentle teachers and people. She had a special and wonderful way with her students. She had the patience to work with the littlest kids, yet she treated each of them with the respect they deserved. And the students loved and, in turn, respected her right back. She will be greatly missed. We have lost a truly wonderful woman and teacher.

How lucky we were to have Phyllis at 'Iolani so long.  So many were touched by her gentle ways, her loving encouragement and her beautiful smile, my own children included.  God bless you, Phyllis.  May you rest in peace.

I was a co-advisor to the `Iolani class of 2010, and very fondly remember the day, just weeks before graduation, when the seniors visited the kindergarten class for lunch.  Phyllis returned to campus to visit with her former students, and they were so ecstatic and grateful to see their former teacher back in school for a day, just for them.  She shared lots of stories of their Lower School days, and it was a beautiful sight.

I happened to be at a K class when Phyllis was describing the miracle of a plant seed. She conveyed love and hope that something so small can grow and become so big and beautiful. I still remember the students' attention and wide eyes, and that was about 15 years ago. What a lady and a cherished teacher.  Aloha and Mahalo.  Glenn Ching

Mom you were always there for me..I will miss you. You were my hero, and my inspiration. I wish I could have been more like you!
Love you! Alison

With a saddened heart and soul, I must say good bye to the kindest, sweetest person I ever knew, my big sister Phylis.  I'm so happy I could call her my sister.  Love you and miss you... your little brother Michael.

OBITUARY

Phyllis S. Latimer

December 22, 1931 – January 28, 2012

Borthwick Mortuary

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services