Phyllis Davis Katcher

Phyllis Davis Katcher, 93, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2014. The eldest of two children, she was born on August 15, 1921, in Providence, RI, to Bess Kamins Davis and Albert N. Davis. The family moved to Chicago, Illinois when Phyllis was a child. She graduated from Sullivan High School in 1938, and in 1945 earned a BFA from The Chicago Art Institute. In 1947 she married Samuel (Pepper) Katcher. They lived in New York City for three years and then moved to San Antonio. In San Antonio, Phyllis and Pepper became active members of the Texas Young Democrats. They joined the Texas International Folk Dancers, attending weekend dance camps. They always had a house full of cats, joined in 1956 by daughter Gayle.

Phyllis continued to study art throughout her lifetime, taking courses at UTSA, Trinity University, Southwest Craft Center and elsewhere. In 1963, Phyllis received her Texas Teacher Certification from Our Lady of the Lake College. She taught art in the SA Independent School District for 20 years, mainly at Lanier High School. She was a life-long teacher even after leaving the classroom.

Phyllis was well-known locally for her paintings, pottery, and ceramic sculpture. She won numerous awards and had many pieces exhibited in galleries and in permanent collections. She was active in several fine arts organizations including the River Art Group, Texas Fine Arts Association, and Texas Watercolor Society.

In addition to art and teaching, Phyllis enjoyed being around family, good friends, and cats. She was an avid swimmer and enjoyed the outdoors. She doted on her grandchildren and was an important presence in their lives. She was active with Community Unitarian Universalist Church, serving on the board of directors and on a variety of committees.

Phyllis was adventurous. She loved to explore new places and experience different cultures. Her extensive travels included visits to Russia, China, Mexico, Australia, the Galapagos Islands, and Greece. When in her 70's, she bravely took her young grandchildren on a Colorado ski trip. Phyllis also loved "Lurching Birches," the lakeside log cabin in the Michigan Upper Peninsula where her parents lived for many years and where Phyllis enjoyed swimming, canoeing, and walking in the woods. Phyllis was especially fond of, and artistically inspired by, the Texas Hill Country and the Texas Gulf Coast.

Phyllis is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother Stuart. She is survived by her daughter Gayle Kipp and husband Ron, and grandchildren Alexander Kipp and Erin Kipp all of San Antonio.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Gentiva House for the loving, respectful care they gave to Phyllis.

Memorial Service has been confirmed for Friday, December 5, 2014, 1:00P.M., Porter Loring Chapel on McCullough, with a reception to follow.

Those who desire may make memorial contributions to the San Antonio Food Bank or to the charity of your choice.