In loving memory of

Phyllis Frances Pendegraft
March 6, 1926 - February 13, 2015

Phyllis Pendegraft, 88, of Carson, IA, passed away on February 13, 2015 at the Oakland Manor in Oakland, IA. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at the Carson United Methodist Church with Pastor Brody Tubaugh officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at the church. Burial will be in the Carson Cemetery.

Memorials: Directed by the family

Phyllis Frances Pendegraft, one of seven children of Ray Gaies and Silvia Maude (Carr) Batten, was born in Silver City, Iowa on March 6, 1926. Her family moved to Macedonia, Iowa where Phyllis attended school at School Number 9 Macedonia until the 8th grade and then she was needed at home to help care for her brothers and sisters.

Phyllis was united in marriage to James Reginald (Reggie) Pendegraft on February 20, 1943. They were blessed with three children, Joyce, Jim and Judy. Reggie and Phyllis farmed near Elliott, Iowa for a few years before moving to Carson, Iowa where Reggie started Pendegraft Trenching Company. In 1950, William "Bill" Lewis, at age 14, became part of their family. In 1960, they built and operated the Carson Motel, selling the business in 1969.

Phyllis was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Carson for over 58 years. She was the activity manager for the Senior Citizens for several years, sold Avon and worked as a waitress for a time. Her favorite pastimes were her church and "whatever else" was happening in Carson. Phyllis enjoyed helping family and friends and fixing her famous macaroni and cheese dish for anyone who needed it. Among her many loves were country music, cheating her grandkids at cards, Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bulls, silk flowers, a meal of only fresh tomatoes, doing laundry for herself and for others, anything with a Cardinal bird on it, softball and baseball games at Macedonia, talking to friends on the phone even if she dialed the wrong number, cruising around town, and attending any activity where young people were involved. Phyllis did not know a stranger, for all became her friends.

Phyllis passed away on February 13, 2015 at the Oakland Manor in Oakland, Iowa at the grand age of 88 years, 11 months, and 7 days. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Reggie (1997); daughter Judy (2006); sister Lois Corbin; and brothers, Marlin, Glen, Galen and Wayne Batten.

Phyllis is survived by her daughter Joyce McClain and husband Keith of Carson; son Jim Pendegraft and wife Sue of Surprise, Arizona; sister Wilma Lewis; and sister-in-law Marge Batten, both of Carson, five grandchildren, Jodi (Keven), Ed (Beki), Regina (Vinny), Russell (Amanthi), Ryan (Brittany); 13 great grandchildren, Amber (Tom), Ashley (Jeremy), Alisha (Kyle), Gage, Dylan, Brett, Addison, Jackson, Jordan, Joelle, Evelyn, Sam, Jacob; four great-great grandchildren, Aubrey, Mac, Vaeda, Jaxon; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Tributes

Karen Tye wrote on Feb 18, 2015:

"I always loved it when Phyllis came into the beauty shop, always brought a laugh to everyone, she never knew a stranger, was such a loving person."

Emily wrote on Feb 17, 2015:

"I am very sorry for your loss. One encouraging thought you might find comforting in this difficult time is found at John 5:28, 29. "The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out." God gives us this beautiful hope that he will soon resurrect our dead loved ones and we can see them again."

Joan Houser wrote on Feb 16, 2015:

"Phyllis was a wonderful person, always so kind and cheerful !She found good in everyone. She will be truly missed !"

Margine Henry wrote on Feb 16, 2015:

"Will never forget driving the boulevard with Phyllis on guard. "Don't phone, don't telegraph, just tell Phyllis Pendegraft" was true, but not in a bad way. She was always entertaining. She'll still be watching us from above. Rest in peace Phyllis."

Irene Skank. wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"What is Carson without Phyllis? She keep every one Happy and laughing. Will miss you Lady."

Lisa Beringer wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"She always had a smile and her front porch and home was open to all. She was a great friend to my mother as well."

Ellen Duysen wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"From the first moment that I met precious, wonderful, sweet, ornery Phyllis I was in love. She kindly welcomed us into the Carson community and brought a smile to our faces each time we were together. I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to know and love fabulous Phyllis. "

Bernie & Helen Higgins wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"We also remember her with fun, kind and loving thoughts. She was a good sport through it all... Our condolences to you all."

Julie Patrick wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"I just adored Phyllis, she was always so kind to me and joked with Stuart every time she saw him. What a sweet angel God has to help watch over all of your family. Hold on to all of the precious memories of her, it will keep your heart & faith strong. Love, Julie & Stuart Patrick"

Charlene Bates wrote on Feb 15, 2015:

"such a great lady. Always liked it . when you would see her around town, always a pleasant smile and good conversation. "

Loess Hills Funeral and Cremation Center wrote on Feb 14, 2015:

"love you phyllis. rest in peace. will miss you!"

Ardith (Ayers) Branan wrote on Feb 14, 2015:

"When I was in grade school Phyllis's daughter, Joyce, was one of my best friends. Phyllis will be missed."

Mary Lou Brammer lou wrote on Feb 14, 2015:

"I had many good times and sitting around the table gossiping drinking coffee and eating her pumpkin bars she was a great lady won't be able to come down but you are in my prayers Mary Lou b"

darcy rollins story wrote on Feb 14, 2015:

"so sorry to hear, what a great lady she was! Always full of piss & vinegar she put a smile on everyone's face she will dearly be missed!! What a great Angel our Dear Lord received!!"