Phyllis P. Githens

Phyllis Githens - A Lifelong Educator Who Nurtured Young Minds

Phyllis P. Githens, born on May 7, 1939, and passed away on November 16, 2025, was a beloved teacher and cherished family member. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. She was the daughter of the late Vernon W. Gollihugh and Susan Gollihugh.

Phyllis dedicated her life to fostering a love of learning in countless children during a 32-year career in the Miamisburg School System. She graduated with a Bachelor's degree from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and, due to her persistence and passion for learning, she also earned her Master's degree in Education from Miami. Her dedication to her students extended far beyond the classroom walls. Former students remained in touch with her throughout her life, a testament to the lasting impact she made.

Following her retirement, Phyllis found new ways and things to learn. She became an art docent at the Dayton Art Institute, enriching the lives of museum visitors. Phyllis also loved spending time outdoors. She cherished memories of her 2015 Arizona hiking trip and enjoyed cycling and hiking with friends and her grandchildren.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Angie Zajac; her husband, Carl, of 46 years; and her two brothers: Jim (Marge) and Ray (Faye) Gollihugh. She leaves behind a daughter, Leslie Githens; two granddaughters, Casey Farnsworth and Alexis (Wyatt) Mount; a great-granddaughter, Eleanor Jane Mount; her two brothers, Roger (Lois) and Vernon (Susan) Gollihugh; and a lifetime of cherished memories. Phyllis was thrilled to become a great-grandmother this year. Phyllis will be deeply missed by her large extended family and her many friends.

The family will receive friends from 10 am to 11 am on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville. The funeral service will immediately follow at 11 am on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the funeral home. Brian Bennett will be officiating. A graveside service will be at 11 am on Monday, November 24, at Miami Valley Memorial Gardens in Centerville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either the Boys Town https://www.boystown.org or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org in Phyllis Githens' memory. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.stubbsconner.com.