Phyllis Edwards Smith

Phyllis Edwards Smith passed into the loving arms of Jesus on March 10th, 2024 surrounded by her family. Phyllis was the devoted wife of 61 years to Bill E. Smith, a loving mother to Todd (Lori) and Troy (Missy), and the proud "Nana" to her four precious granddaughters, Logan and Lindsay, and Arleigh and Taylor. She is also survived by her nephews Allan and Darrell Edwards and niece Lisa Edwards. She was pre-deceased by her parents Arley and Edna Edwards, brother Don and sister-in-law Marge Edwards.

Phyllis was born on May 31st, 1940 in Goshen, Ohio. She passionately loved her family, friends, and the entire Goshen community, dedicating her entire life to it. She always greeted anyone that walked through her home's door with her proverbial "Yoo Hoo", her piercing blue eyes, a soft smile and warm hug.

Phyllis earned the Valedictorian Award as a member of the Goshen High School Class of 1958. It was also a great honor for her to be chosen as the first football homecoming queen.

Phyllis graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wilmington College and began her 37-year career in education with The Goshen Local School District. She proceeded to acquire her Master's Degree in Administration from Xavier University in 1974. She taught sixth grade for three years and was the principal at Cook Elementary for 25 years before retiring in 1997. In August 1962, she married her high school sweetheart Bill at Goshen United Methodist Church. She was a lifelong member there, served as Sunday School Superintendent for many years, and sat on many church committees.

Shortly after retirement, Phyllis began her most enjoyable job of all, being a "Nana" to Logan, Arleigh, Lindsay, and Taylor. They spent countless hours together playing "dress-up", playing school, having wiener roasts, and always riding around the farm on her golfcart.

Phyllis will be deeply missed by all her knew her. Though she may be gone, her spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Goshen Education Foundation.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 13th, 6-8 PM. Funeral will be Thursday, March 14th at 10 AM. Both will be held at Goshen  Methodist Church.