Phyllis Leaders

1930 - 2021

Phyllis Alvina (Graalfs) Leaders, formerly of Minden, Iowa, passed away peacefully at Hansen House in Council Bluffs on Tuesday, October 26, her 91st birthday. Phyllis was born October 26, 1930 in Council Bluffs to Edward and Liz (Tiarks) Graalfs. She graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1948. After marrying Lowell Leaders on June 18, 1949, together they lovingly raised 6 children and farmed until retirement. Phyllis enjoyed gardening, baking, puzzles of all kinds, and playing cards and board games with her kids and grandkids. She didn't know how she would've survived without her kids. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Eugene (Tootie) Graalfs; infant sister, Marilyn; son-in-law, Bill Papich; daughter-in-law, Lorraine (McIntosh) Leaders; and granddaughter, Laura Leaders. Phyllis is survived by her devoted husband of 72 years, Lowell Leaders; six children, Marcia Papich, Cindy (Bob) Koch, Beth (Bill) Young,, Gary (Sandy) Leaders, Barb Leaders, Gregg (Cathy) Leaders; 13 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; brother, Ron (Eileen) Graalfs; sister-in-law, Wanda Leaders; and many other relatives. The family would like to thank the staffs of Hansen House and Every Step Hospice for care provided. Visitation with the family, Monday, 5 to 7 p.m. at Cutler-O'Neill-Meyer-Woodring Bayliss Park Chapel. Funeral service, Tuesday, 11 a.m. at the funeral home. A lunch will immediately follow at the Walnut Hill Reception Center, 1350 E. Pierce St. Interment Silver Valley Cemetery, Hancock, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association or Every Step Hospice.