Phyllis Lean (Sailings) Wright

Phyllis Lean (Sailings) Wright obituary, New Albany, IN

Phyllis Lean (Sailings) Wright

Phyllis Wright Obituary

Phyllis Lean (Sailings) Wright, 78, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025. A proud survivor of colon cancer, Phyllis faced life's challenges with resilience and grace.

Born on July 26, 1947, in Emerson, Kentucky, Phyllis was the daughter of Clyde and Marie (Durbin) Sailings. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her family. Phyllis's passions were as diverse as her personality; she found joy in playing bingo, exploring the thrill of casinos, going for leisurely drives, and indulging in the "occasional" cigarette. Her love for thrift stores allowed her to discover hidden treasures, and she often engaged in long phone conversations, sharing stories and laughter with those on the other line. Phyllis also took great pride in her flower beds, reflected her love of nature and beauty.

She leaves behind her daughters, Brenda Hack (Pete) and Linda Blair (Greg); her sons, Arthur (Pam) and Richard Wright; and her lifelong partner of 41 years, Mike Turner. Phyllis was a proud grandmother to Mikey, Samantha, Autumn, Christopher, Kelsey, Jessica, Devon, Autumn, Austin, Shawn, Dillon, Dalton, Emmy, as well as 16 great-grandchildren. Phyllis is also survived by her sisters, Evonda Wells and Connalee McGrew, and her best friend, Carolyn Hamilton, who stood by her side through thick and thin.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Sandra Whitten; granddaughter, Amanda; and brothers, C.L. and Teddy Sailings.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) and on Friday after 11:00 a.m. Her funeral service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home with burial to follow at Friendship Cemetery.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

People and places connected with Phyllis

Make a Donation
in Phyllis Wright's name

How to support Phyllis's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Phyllis Wright's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more