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Phyllis De’Louis Hatley, age 60, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, December 4, 2025, at Lakeshore Rehabilitation Center in Waseca, Minnesota.
Born on May 30, 1965, in Gary, Indiana, Phyllis was the beloved daughter of Rufus Sr. and Sadie (Morgan) Hatley. From an early age, she carried a gift for bringing joy to others. She loved to cook and was known for her skill in the kitchen, often hosting and organizing community barbecues where her goal was always to make everyone happy. Her giving spirit, loyalty, and beautiful personality touched all who knew her.
Phyllis dedicated more than 20 years of her life as a registered nurse, serving at various health care facilities. Whether caring for family, friends, or patients, she embodied compassion and selflessness. Beyond her professional life, she found joy in simple pleasures—watching scary movies (but only during the day), painting, and decorating her home with her cherished collection of glass unicorns. She had a flair for the fancy and a love for beauty in all its forms.
Raised in the Jehovah’s Witness faith, Phyllis later rediscovered her spiritual path, embracing faith once again. In doing so, she came to treasure life’s experiences and relationships over material things. Above all, her family was her greatest joy, and she deeply loved her “suns.”
Phyllis leaves behind a “small city” of loving people who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her suns, Phillip De’Shoin Wood and Jeremiah Lewis Hatley Sr.; grandchildren, Taviana and Kira Wood, Jeremiah Jr., Phillip, and Lamayla Hatley; siblings, Theto Hatley, Tabitha Patterson, Taja Hatley, Rufus Hatley Jr., and Nehemiah Hatley; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rufus Sr. and Sadie Hatley; her brother, Ricky Hatley; and her sister, Kathy, who passed in infancy.
Phyllis will be remembered for her generosity, her loyalty, her radiant personality, and her unwavering love for family. Her legacy of care, joy, and faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
109 3rd Street NE, Waseca, MN 56093

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