Phyllis G. Clarke

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the beautiful life of Phyllis G. Clarke, 80, of Lanexa, who peacefully passed away on Friday, March 7. She was welcomed into eternity by her beloved husband Leonard Lee “Junie” Clarke, her parents, Elwood Eugene Gallahan and Mary Virginia Taylor, and her grandson, Nayson Emani.

Phyllis was a woman of unwavering strength, fierce loyalty, and boundless love. She faced challenges with courage and grace, always standing tall for those she loved. A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she poured her heart into the lives of others.

She found joy in the simple pleasures: listening to country music, finding comfort in scripture, and, most of all, sharing laughter and love with her family and friends. Her smile could brighten any room, and her laughter was a gift to all who knew her.

Phyllis retired from the City of Richmond and was a member of New Bridge Baptist Church. Phyllis lived her faith daily, showing unwavering love and kindness to those around her .She is survived by her loving children, Michelle Cottrell & Tony Crawford, her son-in-law Robert Cottrell, and daughter-in-law Lisa Crawford. She was also deeply cherished by her stepchildren, Wanda Fay Emani, Lisa Clarke Groome, and Richard Lee Clarke; her adored grandchildren, Joshua Cottrell, Nicholas Cottrell, Stephen Crawford, Naeda Gustard, Landon Lee Craig, and Tiffany Groome; and her eight precious great-grandchildren. She will also be dearly missed by her sister, Evelyn G. Combs, along with extended family and dear friends, especially Mireya Ellis.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 13, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, VA 23231, where a service honoring her life will be held on Friday, March 14, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Washington Memorial Park. Phyllis’ love, laughter, and unwavering strength will live on in the hearts of all blessed to know her.

In honor of Phyllis’ compassionate spirit, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a local animal rescue organization or Alzheimer’s Association— causes close to her heart. Heritage Humane Society or Alzheimer's .

Her legacy will forever remind us of the beauty of kindness, love, resilience and faith.

The family would love to hear from you and welcome condolences through their online guestbook at www.nelsenrichmond.com.