Phyllis I. Wimsett, age 76 of Neosho, Mo. passed away early Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Phyllis was born on August 5, 1941 in Imperial, Ne., the daughter of Howard and Madge (Eppard) Olson. Phyllis was a teacher. For years she taught children in public school, yet even when a stroke took her language she continued to teach those around her with the quiet lesson of love for her family and her God. She was strong. When she could no longer move her right arm or leg, she showed her strength by doggedly holding onto life for 24 more years. She was a nurturer. When Parkinson’s disease made the act of swallowing food a challenge, she continued to feed us with love and encouragement. She was an artist. As her sight dimmed to blackness she continued to point out beauty in everyone around her. Phyllis was a member of Park Plaza Christian Church. She was a wife and mother, sister and daughter, teacher and friend, most importantly she was a faithful servant of God and left His imprint on all of our lives.

She married the love of her life, Burl Wimsett, in 1964 and they were happily married for 53 years, Burl survives. Additional survivors include two daughters; Heather Wimsett of Neosho, Erica Moore and husband Matt of Terrace Park, Oh., a son; Samuel Wimsett and wife Christina of Joplin, four sisters; Margaret Hartman of Carthage, Mo., Eunice Leroy of Carterville, Mo., Julie Burch of Olathe, Ks., Jimmie McCutcheon of Orlando, Fl., a brother; Ken Olson of Eagle Rock, Mo., four grandchildren; Luke Moore, Vivian Moore, Greyson Wimsett and Cadence Wimsett, and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 12, 2018 at Park Plaza Christian Church. Pastor Gerald Griffin, will officiate. Burial will follow at Diamond Cemetery in Diamond, Mo. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation at the mortuary on Thursday evening from 7 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Thru the Roof Disability Ministry by College Heights Christian Church or to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

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