Phyllis Rae "Papson" Rohde

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Phyllis Rohde, a woman of remarkable strength, a lover of all animals, and a mother whose devotion knew no bounds. Phyllis is leaving behind a legacy of resilience and a heart that never met a stranger.

Born on April 17, 1947, in Galveston, Texas, to Ray and Ethel "Sissy" Papson, Phyllis grew up in Galveston where she resided until moving to the Texas Hill Country in 2007. She was a true horsewoman at heart; barrel racing with a grace and speed that earned her several trophies and ribbons. Her passion for the animal kingdom extended into her professional life as she started working at Galveston Vet Clinic (for D.J. Cleary) in the late 70's early 80's until she became the proud owner of Island Pet Center, where she shared her expertise and love for all creatures.

Phyllis's life was marked by both great joy and unimaginable tragedy. In 1965, she survived a devastating car accident that claimed the lives of her first husband and two babies. Leaving her with physical pain and challenges the rest of her life, but she never complained and fought every battle with grace and strength. Though she carried that sorrow with her, she chose to keep moving forward. In 1968, she married her devoted husband, Robert Rohde, who never left her side. Together, they built a life defined by loyalty and partnership that spanned 58 beautiful years.

In 1979, they made the decision to adopt their daughter, Robin, a moment Robin describes as "the greatest blessing of her life."

Phyllis's greatest role was that of a mother. Despite the hardships she faced, she showed up for every moment of her daughter's life. She was the quintessential "homeroom mother," the chaperone on field trips, and the highlight of career day, when she would delight the students by bringing animals from her pet shop to school. Her presence was a constant, steady light in Robin's life.

Though her final days were difficult, her family finds comfort in knowing she is finally free from pain. We imagine her now reunited with those who went before her: her parents, Ray and Ethel "Sissy" Papson, and her children, Robert William Ostermeyar and Lori Lee Ostermeyar.

Phyllis is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Robert (Bobby) Rohde; her daughter, Robin Rohde, and son-in-law, James Grasso; her brother, John Papson of Virginia, her sister in law, Joan Rohde-Englert, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In accordance with Phyllis's wishes, she will be cremated and no formal funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to habitat for Horses or Galveston Island Humane Society honoring her lifelong devotion to the animals she so dearly loved.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the amazing nurses at Peterson Hospice in Kerrville, TX as they made her last days peaceful and comfortable.

Phyllis has one request, at 5:00, everyone to make a "toast" (with the drink of your choice) in her memory…because It's 5'O'clock somewhere!