Phyllis Sue Fox

Phyllis Sue Fox (Nana), 72, of West Plains, Missouri passed away on Monday, July 29th, 2024. She was born on June 17th, 1952 in Yuma, Arizona. Nana’s roots and Native heritage were grounded in Arizona, where many of her loved ones reside. At only 21 years old, she embarked on an unknown adventure and found herself in the small town of West Plains, Missouri. Nana was always known to be a wandering spirit, searching for something far greater than herself. She married Oscar Howell Jr. on December 13th, 1975 and they had one daughter, Olivia Johnson, on January 21st, 1976. Nana was mostly a stay at home mom and worked many hospitality jobs throughout her life. However, her most special and honorable role was being a Nana. In caring for and raising her grandchildren, it can be said that Nana found what was far greater than herself. She knew how to beautifully hold space for her grandchildren and always had just the right words of both comfort and wisdom. Her heart-warming embrace was one that always quieted the worries and consoled deep anguish. Nana’s presence felt like a guiding light, in the midst of generations who were wandering spirits themselves. That was her legacy – making sure her tribe did not have to walk this earth unaccompanied nor suffer in isolation. Nana was the testament of strength and resiliency, which was evident in her ability to burden her loved one’s sorrows and afflictions. Her heart and soul were embedded with the whispers of those closest to her, which she held close to her until her very last moment.

Phyllis is survived by her brother Calvin (Gobacki) Hayes Sr. who resides in Phoenix, Arizona; her nieces Laura Soto Miranda (Arturo), Lydia Soto, and Lisa Soto Esquerra who resides in Somerton, Arizona, who knew her as “Miggie.” Her legacy also lives on in her child, Olivia & Michael Johnson; her grandchildren: Elissa & Tristan Bodiford, Damian & Devin Smith, Alexzander Smith, Laura & Andre Dominque, & Claire Johnson; and her great grandchildren: Mia, Gabriel, Micah, & Eden Smith. Phyllis’s daughter and grandchildren exemplify the strength and compassion she had for others, while honorably continuing her legacy throughout their own lives.

She is preceded in death by her parents: Lillian Hayes and Pete Hayes, and her siblings: Cyril Mills Sr., Rudy Hayes, Victor Hayes Sr., Everette Hayes, Raphael Hayes Sr., Paul Hayes, Mildred Hayes, Deborah Hayes, and Janice Hayes.

Nana’s presence will forever be irreplaceable for many and for those closest to her, will feel there is a piece of themselves which left with her. However, parts of Nana are rooted into their existence and sketched into their memories. Nana’s family described her as: vibrant, a free-spirit, warm-hearted, gracious, nurturing, trusting, selfless and above all else, loved her family fiercely.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, August 17th, at 2:00 pm at United Free Will Baptist Church in West Plains, MO. Memorial contributions can be made to the “Go Red for Women” organization in support of Women’s Heart Disease. Flowers and other memorial contributions may be sent to United Free Will Baptist Church, 607 Lanton Road West Plains, MO 65775.