Phyllis Matroni Proffitt

Phyllis Matroni Proffitt, 90, of Lynchburg, passed away on February 25, 2026. She was the wife of the late Hugh Warren Proffitt, Sr.

Phyllis was born on August 28, 1935 in Lynchburg, to the late William Terrell Matroni and Beulah Woodford Matroni. Phyllis was also preceded in death by her sister, Wendell Lee Matroni, and her half-sister, Barbara Matroni Walker.

Phyllis and Hugh were married on February 5, 1957 and shared a deep love and commitment that withstood the test of time. They shared a strong sense of faith and built their life together based on this. They lived all over the world and US as Hugh was in the Air Force, and Hugh always said that no matter where they were, Phyllis always made it feel like home. They returned to Lynchburg in 1973, and resided here since. Phyllis took great pride in being a homemaker, wife, and mother, working tirelessly taking care of her family. She was always willing to help anyone who needed it - she took care of both of her parents, as well as her aunt, during their final years, and tirelessly cared for her husband, Hugh, during his 9 year battle with cancer. He always said he didn’t know what he would do without her. Phyllis and Hugh shared 4 children, and she is survived by all of them, as well as their children and grandchildren.

Phyllis had a zest for life, and always said age is nothing but a number. She was very young at heart, and not a typical 90 year old because she was so spunky. She loved clothes and makeup, and always liked to be completely put together when going anywhere - everything had to coordinate perfectly. Anyone who knew her knows she LOVED Billy Idol and attending his concerts and meet and greets were a highlight of her life. She loved to travel and never met a stranger - she loved to meet new people, and everyone who met her and had the pleasure of knowing her, loved her. Phyllis was sharp minded and had a quick wit, loving to make others laugh. She wasn’t afraid to let people know what she thought, and you always knew where you stood with her. Phyllis loved animals, and her kitties were the center of her world - she loved them so very much and they miss her dearly.

Phyllis was one of the strongest people you would ever know, and that strength came from her deep sense of faith. She left us all unexpectedly, but there is no doubt that it was one of the happiest days of her life as she entered Heaven and she and Hugh were reunited. There is no doubt that he was waiting for her with open arms.

Phyllis will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A private graveside service was held by those closest to Phyllis at Fort Hill Memorial Park. A celebration of Phyllis’ life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Lynchburg Humane Society or to the Pearson Cancer Center.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.