Phyllis Howard

Phyllis Jean Howard, passed away peacefully January, 13th 2026. In her home surrounded by family who loved her tremendously.

Phyllis, was born May, 20th 1942 to loving parents Charles and Maxine Sutton in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Phyllis will be remembered as the life of the party. Her joyful laugh and her beautiful smile could light up a dark room. She cared deeply about the people she loved, doing whatever that she could do to help. Phyllis spent almost 40 years as a CNA at Borgess Gardens until she retired in her 70s. Phyllis was a hard working dedicated woman. She loved what she did. She created long term friendships with wonderful co-workers Alma Snell and Janet Green, Bonded with residents and much more. Phyllis spent most of her time after retirement with family and watching her favorite shows. Phyllis was a big football fan, Screaming at the television in her living room as if she were standing on the sidelines! She loved to draw and do cross-word puzzles. Gossip with her daughters and granddaughters, sitting on her porch on a nice summer day. Phyllis enjoyed her life after retirement relaxing and spending time with family.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Maxine Sutton, Siblings Ralph and David Sutton. She is survived by her loving siblings Richard (Mary) Sutton, Janice Miller, Judy Little, Carol Caswell and Linda Clifford. Her loving children Michael Sutton, Amy Bolhuis, Mary Herrera, Ronda Howard and Walter Howard. Her grandchildren Angelisa (Carl) Howard, Haley (Joe) Howard, Branden Herrera, Monica Geren, Eliona Wilkerson. Great-grandchildren Marcus Cruz, Akiem Mayfield, Noelle Benavidez and SahMariah Horn and many family and friends.

Phyllis will truly and deeply be missed.

A special note from the family: Grandma, we love you FOREVER!! You are now our beautiful angel.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.