Phyllis Ann Firlus

Phyllis Ann (Harris) Firlus, 93, passed away peacefully at St. Luke's Hospital Hospice Unit on Sept. 18, 2025.

Born on June 30, 1932, in Paducah, Kentucky, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Sara Ina (Landon) Harris and William Harry Harris. From an early age, she was a trailblazer - making her mark in a time when few women had the opportunity to pursue athletics. As a gifted fastpitch softball player, she rose to be named the top shortstop in the state of Kentucky, a rare accomplishment for a young woman of her era.

Her passion for movement and competition extended well beyond her youth. Phyllis picked up fencing in her later years and was a fierce racquetball player well into adulthood. She mastered the game of tennis and rose to become the women's head tennis coach at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Her energy and enthusiasm for life were visible to all.

Phyllis began her academic journey at Murray State University in 1950, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Education. She went on to receive her master's degree in Physical Education from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Her adventurous spirit took her from Wisconsin to Illinois and then on to Frankfurt, Germany, where her two children were born. Never one to shy away from adventure, Phyllis embraced each new chapter with courage and curiosity.

She spent her middle years in Rock Island, Illinois, where she raised her two children with love and determination. In her later years, she lived in Nashville and Chicago, and ultimately landed in Marion, Iowa, where she continued to support and inspire those around her.

Phyllis had a deep appreciation for beauty and creativity. She spent countless hours working with stained glass, both as an artist and a teacher. She was also an avid gamer - cards, bingo, board games - you name it, she played it, always with a competitive spirit.

Above all, Phyllis cherished her family, and they cherished her. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who never missed a sporting event, card game, or opportunity to spoil her grandchildren. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and she will be missed.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Mary Jo Craver. She is survived by her son, Duke Firlus; daughter, Tracy Cassidy and husband Paul; three grandchildren, Maxwell, Annie, and Oliver; various cousins and nieces; and one nephew.

A celebration of Phyllis's life will be held at 9 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 6, at Maple Lawn Park Cemetery in Paducah, Kentucky, followed by coffee and baked goods at Pipers Tea and Coffee, 3100 Broadway St., Paducah.

Instead of flowers, the family invites you to send donations to Shriners Children's.