Phyllis Anne BURWELL

June 13, 1924 - October 3, 2023

She was born June 13, 1924, Dayton, Ohio, and passed away October 3, 2023, Spokane, WA. of natural causes, age 99.

Phyllis is survived by her children Robin Burwell of Portland OR, Cheryl (Burwell) Harper and Richard Harper of Truckee, CA, Pamela Burwell Craig of Spokane, five grand-children and nine great-grand children. Preceded in death by husband Roger W. Burwell.

Graduated with a BA from Miami U of Ohio, Phi Beta Kappa. She attended the University of Washington where she did graduate work in the school of Social Work. She worked as a Social-Worker for DSHS in CA and then Welcome Wagon in Washington DC as well as in Spokane.

She was a member of the AAUW, a past president of the Spokane chapter of the Audubon Society, Spokane Bike Club, and the Girl Scouts of America. She was a 2004 Princess in the Lilac Celebrate Life Pageant. Even into her 80's she was still volunteering at Our Place folding and sorting donations. Her scooter was a familiar sight heading to the library or the local COPS shop to volunteer. Throughout her long life she supported charities, wildlife and philanthropic organizations. Service to others and supporting good causes were her joy. She was a life long voracious reader and supported every local library where ever she lived. She loved nature and later in life credited her longevity to "growing up in her maple tree" where her brother Paul had built a trapeze and a seat on which they would perch to survey the world below. She enjoyed a life of adventure with her husband Roger, traveling, all-season camping and canoeing while living in Alaska, the PNW and California finally landing in Sagle, Idaho where together they built the log home of their dreams in which to retire. A lifelong church member she served on boards. cared for and championed causes to help the poor and disadvantaged wherever she resided. While living in Ceylon in the 1950's she helped organize relief for refugees impacted by natural disasters. She was loved and admired by many for her spunky, friendly nature, ready wit and generous laughter. Her positive attitude was contagious and it was said that she made new friends wherever she went. She lived a long full life of service to others and right up to the end was loved and admired by all of her caregivers. She made us all want to live a life of service and laugh along the way. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later time.