Obituary published on Legacy.com by Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Rich Square Chapel on Nov. 7, 2025.
Phyllis Branch Lassiter, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a bountiful life filled with laughter, adventure, and a love for others that knew no boundaries.
A self-proclaimed hippie, she lived with a free spirit and a youthful soul. She adored the mountains. She found joy in music-from Motown to the rock and roll of the '60s, '70s, and '80s. She embraced every opportunity to travel, to listen and learn from others, and to advocate without end for the progressive beliefs she held dear to her heart.
A voracious reader, she could always find literary treasures, whether it be in the Jackson public library or the Crabtree Valley Barnes and Noble. She did love a good thriller, mystery, or fantasy tale that swept her away into other worlds. Her fascination with stories extended beyond fiction into real lives and places. As a passionate genealogist, she traced the roots of family with meticulous care and pride. Her historical interests and research also reflected her deep connection to place, ranging from the history of Rich Square and Northampton County to the intricate battles and personal stories of the Civil War. Her curiosity knew no bounds. As such, she was also a dedicated ghost hunter (well, at least while binging her TV shows in the comfort and safety of her living room). She was fascinated in uncovering the truths of haunted locations, Big Foot, and the mysterious "Light" at Early Station outside of Aulander.
Above all, she will be remembered for her devotion to family and friends - her husband, Allen, to whom she was married for 53 years; her children and grandchildren - her son, Chris and his wife, Valerie Lassiter, and their children, Sophie and Brendan; and her daughter, Katie, and her husband Doug Henderson, and their children, Edie and Reid; as well as her lifelong friends who have been part of her journey since her beloved childhood years.
A celebration of life graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Cedar Lawn Cemetery in Rich Square, with Rev. Dusty Sprouse officiating.
Memorial donations in Phyllis's memory may be made directly to the Rich Square Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 958,
Rich Square, NC 27869 or online by clicking here.
Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service ~ Rich Square will be handling the arrangements for the Lassiter family and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.garrettsykesfs.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Phyllis, please visit our floral store.To make a memorial donation, please visit the donations section of this obituary.