Phyllis Hooper

Phyllis Hooper, a resilient soul whose warmth and strength touched many lives, passed away on April 23, 2024, in Pittsburgh, PA, following a courageous battle with heart disease. She was 66 years old.
Phyllis was born on April 22, 1958, in the historic Hill District of Pittsburgh. She was the beloved daughter of Gloria Jean Kitchen and William Ackles. Growing up in the vibrant South Oakland area, she attended Schenley High School before embarking on a unique educational path. She completed her GED through an adult education program sponsored by the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of Pittsburgh, showcasing her determination and thirst for education.
At the tender age of 18, Phyllis embarked on a journey of love and family. She married Charles Williams, and together they experienced the joys and challenges of parenthood, welcoming their beloved daughter, Latusha Williams, into the world. Their journey took them to Tacoma, Washington, where Charles served in the US Army. Afterward, Phyllis returned to her roots in Pittsburgh, settling in the Hill District, where she continued to support her family.
Phyllis was a dedicated worker, taking on various roles in commercial property management, including helping maintain the family-owned Airbnb on Cato Street in Oakland. Seeking new horizons, she ventured to Atlanta, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida, where she resided alongside her dear friend Cheri Powe. Her daughter and son-in-law eventually joined her in Jacksonville, enriching her life with family closeness.
Phyllis's journey was one of remarkable transformation. In the late 2000s, she overcame weight struggles with gastric bypass surgery, shedding over 100 pounds. This triumph improved her health and ignited a newfound confidence that she proudly expressed through her love for fashion and embracing the latest trends. Throughout her life, Phyllis exemplified the spirit of caregiving, especially demonstrated in her devoted care for her sister, Arlean, after a stroke, until Arlean's passing. She often hosted family gatherings for Sunday feasts, accompanied by cheering on her beloved Steelers.
Phyllis's legacy is one of resilience and boundless love. She leaves behind her daughter, Latusha Williams Freeman (Troy Freeman), of Jacksonville, Florida; her grandson, Phillip Jordan; great-grandchildren Semia and Heaven; sisters Cynthia Haston, Vanessa Anderson, and LaNella Hooper-Williams (Martin Williams) of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; and a brother, Kenneth Hooper. She also leaves behind a multitude of nieces and nephews: Sondra Slaughter, Andrew Hooper, Dominique Hooper, Mario Haston, Summer Haston, Trina Chavis, Terri Jones, Brittany Jones, Kevin Hooper, Gloria Hooper, Ebony Hooper, Bianca Hooper, LaShawnda Hooper, Kenny Hooper Jr., and numerous other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gloria Kitchen and William Ackles; sister, Arlean Brown; and brothers, Andrew Leon Hooper and William Thomas Hooper.
Her memory will be cherished by all who were privileged to know her, as she lives on in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering love. May she rest in peace, forever remembered and dearly missed.