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BORN
1952
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Phyllis Gustafson Obituary
Phyllis Riley Gustafson unexpectedly passed away Thursday, February 2, 2017. She was born on May 31, 1952 at an Air Force hospital in Ankara, Turkey. She was deeply loved by her husband Carl, her extended family and a wide circle of friends she had touched with her compassion and heart of service to others who were in need or crisis. She leaves a vacuum in the hearts of those who loved her.
Phyllis is survived by her husband of 24 years, Carl; her parents, Joe and Avis Riley; her sister, Pam and husband Steve; her sister, Julie and husband Jon; a daughter, Amanda and her husband John; three grandchildren, Michael, Lily and Scarlett and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Phyllis was a graduate of John Marshall High School and received a degree in Sociology from the University of Texas. She worked as a social worker, then as a sales rep for various companies. For the last 15 years, she worked in marketing in the family business, Ace Mart Restaurant Supply.
Phyllis found many to express her deep sense of compassion and caring for others. She especially had a heart for those who had encountered grief or sorrow in their lives, leading Grief Care classes at Community Bible Church, and for years assisted the San Antonio Pregnancy Care Center in answering calls of women in crisis pregnancies. She participated in a Mission trip to Mexico to work with children and joined a group of volunteers from Children's Hunger Fund on a mission trip to Haiti. And she was a frequent smiling face serving as an usher at Community Bible Church.
She saw her mission in life as a "connector" - putting people in touch with other friends or organizations. Every new acquaintance she met went into her phone contacts as a future referral! For two years, she was a faithful companion at the bedside of a dear friend battling cancer. The Lord will surely raise up new angels of compassion to fill the void she has left. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, February 6, 2017, at Porter Loring Mortuary North.
SERVICE
TUESDAY,
FEBRUARY 7, 2017
9:30 A.M.
COMMUNITY BIBLE CHURCH
Dr. Ed Newton will officiate. Interment will follow in Mission Burial Park North. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the San Antonio Pregnancy Care Center, 7210 Louis Pasteur Dr., #100, San Antonio, TX 78229, www.sapregnancy.com or the Children's Hunger Fund, 4940 Eisenhower Rd., #146, San Antonio, TX 78218.
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Memories and Condolences
for Phyllis Gustafson
Sponsored by Porter Loring Mortuary North.
Marcia Howard Evans
May 31, 2017
I am so sorry to read this today about my friend. I loved being her roommate in the late 70's. She was the best. I had always admired her through high school and was thrilled and honored that we connected and became roommates. She honored me by being a bridesmaid in my wedding. Time had distanced us, but she has always been in my heart.
I had no idea this had happened and my heart is breaking. I will miss knowing this wonderful lady is in this world. I am so thankful that I will see her again one day.
My heartfelt condolences to you, Carl and your family and to the Rileys. What a loss! My prayers for comfort in this time of sorrow
April 18, 2017
Phyllis was a lovely person that I was honored to know. She always glowed with a genuine, caring and kind spirit. I will never forget her. God Bless her and her family.
PS: I remember Phyllis was an honor student in High School. I thought she showed GREAT bravery when she told our Science teacher that she would not participate in killing bugs to pin on a poster for a class project. Instead she went on to do an even better and less harmful project explaining important habitats for insects to survive ...and that is what she did!
Phyllis always celebrated life.
Her Friend,
Mary Catherine Layton
loy thompson
March 22, 2017
I met Phyllis after Fran died and we connected at that time as Fran was the reason I became a nurse. Phyllis reached out to me and became my friend. She was such a joy to be around. At one time I was having some trouble and she helped me through it with compassion, held my hand, gave me hugs, the list is goes on. I just found out yesterday of her passing. I will be forever grateful our lives crossed. Please know the Gustafson family are in my prayers. God Bless. Loy Thompson
Cheryl Meyer
February 26, 2017
Carl and family,
It is difficult to lose someone this early in her life and I am so sorry for your loss. Me and my late husband lived next door to Gus and Fran for a number of years. Every Christmas season, I recall the special "next door Swedish holiday party". There is no doubt that Gus and Fran wrapped their arms around Phyllis sharing much warmth and love as God brought her into His House. As each day continues forward, may you and all family members find ways to smile and give thanks for the blessings of the day. (Cheryl...widow of Steve Meyer, August 2002)
Beth Daring
February 12, 2017
My heart goes out to all of the Gustafson's and Riley's. You're all in my heart and prayers.
♡♡
Ofelia Duran
February 9, 2017
Carl & Family
I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. May God bless you and comfort you all during this difficult time.
February 8, 2017
All of your McDonald/Stout family will miss you, precious cousin, as will everyone who was blessed to know you. We love you and all your family dearly.
Darleen and David Wright & family
Oklahoma City, OK
Rachel Keller
February 8, 2017
I am so very sorry for the loss of such a sweet person. My prayers are with her family during this difficult time.
Rose Riojas
February 7, 2017
To Carl & Family;
With deepest sympathy for your & everyone else's loss. I had the pleasure of working at PacifiCare with Phyllis, such a sweet person she was. Always had kind words & good advice. When I would go to church I always looked for Phyllis to seat me at CBC....
May God Give you STRENGTH...
From Long Time Friend,
Rose Riojas
Brian Daniels
February 7, 2017
"Phyllis, you went too soon! My sympathies to your Family".
April Travis
February 7, 2017
Just received word that Phyllis Riley Gustafson unexpectedly passed away last Thursday. She was one of our Sweet Scented Sisters in our Young Living family. I believe she was a highly developed soul whose work was done here and now she is celebrating her graduation. She was a good friend to so many and we will miss her. Phyllis connected me with Ginger who replaced me at my day job with flying colors. She knew who would be a good fit and she was right. She was persistent and getting me to listen and I'm so glad I did. Prayers go out to her friends and family. ((( <3 ))) April Travis
Juli Selzer
February 7, 2017
Carl, my condolences to you and your family. Phyllis was such a sweet woman.
Natalie North
February 7, 2017
Please accept my deepest sympathies... My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Phyllis was a very special lady with a huge heart.
Jan and Dan Carter
February 6, 2017
Love and prayers to all of the family, especially you, Carl.
George Shuler
February 6, 2017
Deepest sympathies to Carl and the family. Phyllis was always a good friend and my heart soared when she married Carl. It was great news to see a couple who fit together so well unite. Carl, I know you were a great husband to her. Godspeed, Son!
Bob Buck
February 6, 2017
I first met Phyllis in the early 1980's,she was a beautiful and very gracious lady. My prayers are with her and her family at this sad time. May she rest in peace. Bob Buck
Mary Kunz
February 6, 2017
All of us at St. Philip's College have you in our thoughts and prayers.
Pregnancy Care Center
February 6, 2017
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Love, the Pregnancy Care Center Family
Steve Ochoa
February 6, 2017
I took her river rafting in the 80's. She was a blast to hang out with. Always smiling and a great attitude. I am saddened by this and wish her family strength in these most saddest of times.
Pam Marazzini Hays
February 6, 2017
I met Phyliss in the mid 1970's when we were both Child Protective social workers. Years later she was a volunteer animal rescue worker who came to my home to pick up a rabid-looking squirrel my children found in our yard. I am so sorry for her family to lose such a good person. God bless.
Debbie Holsten,Citro
February 6, 2017
I remember meeting this sweet lady on a trip with our youth many years ago. So sorry Carl, for your loss
Michele Kassahn
February 6, 2017
So very sorry. Praying for all of you.
Dave Yuncker
February 6, 2017
I met Phyllis as she led tables in Foundation classes at CBC. Her students always stayed after class to talk with her.
Patty Barry Locke
February 6, 2017
Mr. and Mrs. Riley and family,
It saddened me to read of Phyllis's death. I can hardly believe such a vibrant, seemingly healthy person can be gone overnight. We will all miss her a lot, but none of us as much as you. Even though Phyllis attended that "other" high school and I went to Holmes, we became friends at UPBC and she showed me how to grow in my relationship with Jesus. For that I will always remember and thank her. Based on what I've read on FaceBook, Phyllis had a huge heart and warmly and lovingly affected many more people than just me. Life will be less full until we can see Phyllis again in heaven. I will pray that your hurt eases quickly.
Linda McDanel
February 6, 2017
When I was the 'new' girl in school and Phyllis was a cheerleader, she was so nice to me. Always had a smile for everyone. Since then, Facebook has given me a chance to keep up with her and her sister, Pam. What a sweet family! And Phyllis was so active...I enjoyed her fun vacation pictures and admired her volunteer activities. It seems she lived life to the fullest and was loved by so many. Heaven has a new, bright star; I'm sure she is shining and joyful, waiting for the rest of us to join her in a new life eternal. I hope that thought is of some comfort to her family in this sad time for them. In sympathy, Linda Stalcup McDanel
Lynn Bender
February 5, 2017
To the family I offer my deepest sympathy and condolences. I pray for strength and comfort as you endure these difficult times. Look to the hills for strength and know that He is and will be a comforter in your time of need. Praying for all. Rest on Phyllis.
Shirley Snoga
February 5, 2017
I am deeply sorry for your loss, words just can't evoke my sympathy. May you and your family find the strength in God to help you through this difficult time I will keep you in my prayers
barrett brunner
February 5, 2017
coach,
i am so so beyond sorry for you and your family. our family is thinking of you and will be forever. bless your big heart!
Lisa Noll
February 5, 2017
Gustafson, Riley, Henley and Delpho Families,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I pray you all find comfort in the beautiful, special memories you have of Phyllis. You are all in my prayers. Much love to each of you.
Shawn Connolly
February 5, 2017
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. Phyllis will forever be an inspiration to so many that she touched. Our Prayers are with You and your Family.
sandy posey aston
February 5, 2017
We are so sorry to hear of her passing and as painful as death is to those who mourn will be assured of Gods healing. Sandy Posey Aston
Eddie Veyran
February 5, 2017
Phyllis I cannot believe you have left us. We recently served last Sunday together at church and had a brief conversation. I am honored to have known you and to have serve along side with you at CBC. I know you're in heaven smiling, God bless you and your family.
Jennifer Widhelm
February 5, 2017
Carl, We are praying for peace and comfort for you, your family, and the many friends that will miss Phyllis terribly.
John and Jennifer Widhelm
February 5, 2017
Carl, and Gustafson Family,
We are so saddened to hear of Phyllis' passing. We will remember her kindness and gentle smile. You are in our prayers. Peggy & Les Hanley
Mary Alice
February 5, 2017
Co ushered with Phyllis for many years at CBC. Her warm,caring, loving personality will be missed. Carl, May God embrace during this difficult time. She was a great inspiration to all
Denise Hunter
February 5, 2017
I am truly saddened for your loss. I will keep the family in my prayers.
Sandra Torres-Lynum
February 4, 2017
Please know that many friends in the Los Amigos Ski Club knew Phyllis several years ago. She was a sweet and lovely and caring person;she will be missed terribly. Condolences to the entire family
February 4, 2017
Praying for comfort and peace to each family member.
May God be near to each one of you during this time of grief.
Jerry and Annette Giordano
Members of Churchill Baptist Church
Tina Whitaker
February 4, 2017
Phyllis was the most compassionate person I have ever met. She was an amazing humanitarian. She always had a referral handy for anyone in need. I am comforted by the fact that she is with Jesus. She so loved the church. The church so loved her. I will miss her terribly. Prayers to Carl and family for peace and comfort during this time of loss.
Lisa (Wilson) Barnebey
February 4, 2017
If anyone tried hard to help people it was Phyllis. Serious about it and always with a determination to find an answer. We were not close but through 27 years or so, we did know each other. And reconnected here and there. We discussed what it was to have a friend. And she simply stated: "You have to be a friend to have a friend." Also, as I discussed my health issues, she was very quick to put down a referral of someone that she thought could help me in the very best way. It will seem strange that this tireless worker will not be seen at CBC nor on FB sharing her adventures and her love of nature or be available to me when I make the effort to call her. As the Bible says: "The harvest in plenty but the workers are few." This just became more true. Phyllis, you did impact people's lives. It is your time to rest and know that God blesses your family and friends: and may they always know how to receive that comfort. Love of another kind, Lisa (Wilson) Barnebey
Rick Klipp
February 4, 2017
Heartfelt Sympathy to family and friends of Phyllis. May God be with you all.
February 4, 2017
Offering heartfelt sympathy to you, family and friends on the passing of Phyllis. May you all be strengthen by the loving support of "the God of all comfort" during this sorrowful time.
Barbara P. Campbell
February 4, 2017
You will forever be in my heart, sweet Phyllis. I will always remember your smile and your unforgettable giggles. Lunch will not be the same without you. I hope that your family will find comfort in knowing how many lives you touched with your unending acts of kindness. "
Ginger Herber
February 4, 2017
I just want her family to be comforted more than anyone but I hope they know how much we loved her. I will miss her so much that I don't have the words.
Michael Schlatter
February 4, 2017
Carl, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Phyllis was a wonderful woman who brought strength and joy to all. She will truly be missed. May the Lord be with you and yours.
Barbara Bartlett
February 4, 2017
Phyllis touched everyone's life she came in contact with. She was such a sweet, genuine and kind person. I am a better person for knowing her. Barbara, Overseas Brat friend
Denise Geiger Willis
February 4, 2017
Phyllis and I (along with many other women), belonged to a women's group back in the 1980's SASWS. She alway lit up a room with her sweet spirit and smile even back then. We have had a few reunions/get togethers over the last 15 years, so I got to see Phyllis several times,, again always so full of life and love for the Lord. There is another Angel in Heaven watching down on us!!! We will miss you. My heartfelt prayers go out to her family.
Brenda Wilson
February 4, 2017
Phyllis loved all her family...this I know for sure. Even in death, Phyllis continues to bring out the better in each of us. Her unsusual and selfless spirit binds our souls and showcases her generousity towards everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. I met Pyllis when we were both young single woman back in the late 70's or early 80th. She was a wonderful leader with an open mind and the wisdom to guide others in need. Phyllis was always as free as a butterfy. May her soul forever glide on gentle wings. She will be so very missed.
Angela White
February 3, 2017
A truly caring lady in all senses of the word.
Cheri Webb
February 3, 2017
You will be missed dearly Phyllis.
Donna Crawford
February 3, 2017
Phyllis was a beautiful sweet spirit and she will be missed by many. I rejoice for her because she is very much alive and I pray that her loved ones will be comforted in the knowledge that she was loved by so many and made a real difference in the lives of those who knew her. Phyllis-you shined brightly for the King!
Tommie Durst
February 3, 2017
Carl, I am praying for our Lord to give you and all the family strength to get thru this difficult time. She was a wonderful person and will be missed by many.
Tommie
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Feb
6
Visitation
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Porter Loring Mortuary North2102 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, TX 78232
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