Phyllis was born in Lake Placid, NY to Philip and Hazel (Fuller) Chambers. Known as Phidy to her close-knit sisters, she enjoyed hours of fun growing up in a small resort town amongst the beautiful mountains and lakes of the Adirondacks.
Phyllis graduated from Lake Placid High School and went on to study at Taylor University, Green Mountain College, and Scarritt College, receiving a degree in religious studies.
She married Robert E. Pendleton, also of Lake Placid, in 1953 and subsequently moved to Philadelphia, PA. where she enjoyed raising her 2 daughters and working part time. She found especially fulfilling work and friends at Grace United Methodist Church where she was challenged to think beyond traditional religious confines. She went on to full time work in the nonprofit sector including jobs at the United Way and American Friends Service Council. Her favorite vacations were tent camping where she could get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
After retirement Phyllis and Bob moved to Elk Grove Village, IL to be closer to their grandchildren, of whom they were extremely proud. She relished time in their condo, volunteering at the library, and participating in church functions. Playing cards and board games was a favorite pastime. Phyllis always had a listening ear and enjoyed best those one on one conversations with family and friends, often over afternoon tea & cookies. She leaves us with many a thoughtful verse and reflection.
Phyllis is survived by her loving daughters Susan (Leo) Rizzo and Carol (Marvin) Warshaw; devoted grandchildren Joseph (Sarah Beth) Rizzo, Kathryn (Michael) Comstock, Teresa (Timothy) Larem, Anthony Rizzo, fiancé Maggie (Gashkoff); adoring great grandchildren, Georgia, Penelope, Juliet, Jackson and Isla; loving sister Beatrice; and 2 nieces. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, of 63 years Robert, and her loving younger sister Nellie (Jim) Bitzer.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday June 11th at 11 am at Prince of Peace United Methodist Church in Elk Grove Village, IL. Our heartfelt thanks to her friends and staff at Friendship Village for their care and compassion these last few months.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Church World Services.
“Faith is the bird that feels the light - And sings when the dawn is still dark” – Tagore.
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