Phyllis Houck

Phyllis Houck, 88, of Corning, passed away Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Corning Specialty Care in Corning, Iowa. Born April 5, 1937, to Frances Wayne and Laura Alice (Hood) Mullin, Phyllis graduated from Cromwell High School with the Class of 1955, forming lifelong friendships and a proud allegiance to her alma mater.

After graduation she moved to Corning and worked as a bookkeeper at Okey Vernon Bank. She met Norvell Houck when she moved to Corning. The couple married on April 6, 1957, and later made their home on a farm north of Carbon. Together they built a thriving family farm of crops and cattle. Phyllis left her work at Okey Vernon to balance the demands of farming with household duties and raising their two children, Joni and Jeff. As the kids grew, she returned to part-time, then full time work at the bank until retiring in 1999. Following retirement, she and Norvell enjoyed winters in Weslaco, Texas—always eager to return to Adams County each spring.

Phyllis was deeply committed to her community and faith. She worshiped and volunteered with churches in Carbon and Prescott and was instrumental, through the Carbon UMW, in fundraising to build a new community center. Her service on numerous committees reflected her strong work ethic and heart for others.

Phyllis had a variety of hobbies which included bowling, playing cards, “visiting casinos”, spending countless hours working in her yard, winters in Texas and travel. She could be ready for a trip on a moment’s notice. She was a life-long baseball and basketball fan. She was a very loyal Cyclone fan with the wardrobe to go with it. She enjoyed being around people and had a sharp wit and sense of humor. She and Norvell made quite a pair when it came to humorous adventures and pranks.

Phyllis was a loyal friend, generous helper, and a natural with children. As a beloved aunt, she treasured time with her great-nephews and niece—countless games of Checkers and Go-Fish and endless laughter.

Survivors include her daughter, Joni Houck of Ames, Iowa; sister Mary Brunner of Creston, Iowa; brothers Glen (Linda) Mullin of Peosta, Iowa; Dave Mullin of Creston, Iowa; Rich (Marlene) Mullin of Creston, Iowa; and Don (Lynn) Mullin of San Diego, California; and many nieces and nephews, including her close nephew James (Caitlyn) Houck of Corning and their children: Camden, Kasen, Carter, and Stella.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Norvell (2012); son, Jeff Houck (1984); brother Harold Mullin; brother-in-law Ray Houck; her parents; and in-laws Clifford and Mary Houck.

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM, Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Corning, with Mr. Larry Johnson officiating. Burial: Oakland @ Quincy Cemetery, rural Corning, Iowa. Visitation: Open visitation 3:00–7:00 PM, with family receiving friends 5:00–7:00 PM, Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the funeral home. Share memories and condolences at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com

Phyllis leaves a legacy of kindness, laughter, and steadfast service that will live on in all who knew and loved her.