Phyllis Yu-Yeh Ma

Phyllis Ma, 93, of Ames, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, February 1, 2026, surrounded by loving friends. A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate her life on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Chinese Evangelical Free Church of Ames, 4911 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Chinese Evangelical Free Church of Ames in Phyllis's honor. To watch the livestream of Phyllis' memorial service: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4153706511?pwd=aDA0TmVqazVjTHprdUF0cmNTOUVJQT09 Meeting ID: 415 370 6511 Passcode: 4911 To watch Phyllis' life tribute video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/6SM6BLJ6D73NC2FT Born on October 6, 1932, in Taipei, Taiwan, Phyllis spent her youth in Taipei. At the age of 38, she married her beloved husband, Benjamen Ma. Shortly after, in 1971, the couple immigrated to Iowa. During their 16 years of marriage, Benjamen's career in Nuclear Engineering took ...[more]

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k them on journeys around the globe. Phyllis treasured these once-in-a-lifetime trips, including memorable travels to Turkey and Argentina, which added a rich chapter of adventure to their life together as they settled fully into their community in Ames. Phyllis was a devoted homemaker, a loving wife, and a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and grandaunt. A sweet and gentle soul, she was known for a generosity that knew no bounds. Her kindness touched everyone she met, and her quiet, steady presence brought a sense of peace to those around her. Her life was a testament to her creativity and care. Gifted with beautiful musical talent, Phyllis was an accomplished pianist and organist. She used these gifts to glorify God, serving faithfully in church and Gospel ministry. Her passion for Jesus was the cornerstone of her life, and she often expressed this devotion through her favorite hymn, "Jesus Paid It All." She found great joy in mentoring Iowa State University students, guiding many to a saving faith in Christ. Her legacy lives on not only in her family but in the countless young lives she impacted through her ministry and music. Her hands were rarely still; Phyllis was also skilled at knitting and sewing. She poured her love into these crafts, handmaking gifts that provided warmth and comfort to her family and friends--tangible reminders of her care that they will cherish forever. Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Benjamen Ma (1987); her son, Stephen Ma (2022); and her sisters, Ruth Suzuki (2021) and Peggy Liao (2008). She is survived by her son, Theodore Ma, his wife Gloria, and their two children, Austin and Alyssa; her daughter-in-law, Christina, and her two children, Joshua and Emily; her brother, Thomas Huang; her sisters, Dorothy Yung, Alma Huang, Marie Lee, and Charlotte Lee; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand- nephews, and extended family members who will miss her dearly.