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Phyllis New Obituary
Phyllis enjoyed nature and a lifetime love of playing the clarinet. In addition to being in the Algona High School Band (where she is pretty sure that she never achieved first chair simply because of her gender!), Phyllis performed in bands throughout her life, only retiring her clarinet in the last decade.
After attending the University of Minnesota, Phyllis married and had two children, Michael and Miriam "Mickie." Later she married Horace "Bill" New in 1948, who adopted both children. They had a third child, R. Casey, and lived on a farm north of Nevada, IA. Bill was an innovator whose approach to farming attracted international visitors and allowed the couple to travel extensively. In 1980, they hosted the Farm Progress Show, a major agricultural event. In 1985, they moved to the northwest corner of Spain where Bill, accompanied by his son Casey, worked on a soybean project. Phyllis played the clarinet with "La Banda de Pontevedra"--the first female to play in the band. It took a while for many members of the band to accept her due to her gender and an American but they all appreciated her musical abilities.
Phyllis and Bill moved to Punta Gorda, FL, in 1988 where she performed with The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. Following Bill's death in 2000, she moved to Southport Square. In addition to music, Phyllis has been a lifelong artist. She had a batik studio at the farmhouse and has painted animals and landscapes in recent decades. She always smiled and was a kind and caring person to all.
Survivors include her two children and their spouses, Mickie and Terry Sexsmith and Casey and Terry New, Phyllis leaves behind four grandchildren, Jennifer New, Chris Sexsmith, Haley New, and Casey R. New and two great grandchildren, Isabella and Tobias Epstein.
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Memories and Condolences
for Phyllis New
3 Entries
Sam Knecht
January 10, 2020
Dear Mickie and Terry Sexsmith:
I've just now learned of Phyllis New's death. That happened as
my annual Christmas card for 2019 came back undelivered to
her Port Charlotte address. I'm her artist/painter nephew from Michigan and my mom, the late Ruth Knecht always had the greatest affection for her cousin Phyllis. I called Aunt Phyllis every few years and sent cards each holiday. I reached the offices of South Park today and though they confirmed Phyllis' death, but would not give any details whatsoever except a tip of what newspaper to research.
Regardless of that, I wish to offer you as well as Casey and his wife my sympathy. I can recall my family going a few times to Iowa to visit mom's family there, especially Phyllis and Bill whom I recall had a very splendid home (back in the 60s). It was fascinating to learn that they were called to Spain to consult with officials on agriculture.
Most of all, I remember Phyllis as being full of good cheer. I hope this condolence reaches you.
MT
February 9, 2019
I am so very sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you in your time of need.
February 8, 2019
I've driven Phyllis to appointments for several years and always found her to be a very kind and gentle person. She will be missed.
Jim from South Port Square Transportation dept.
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