Phyllis Marie Lowery (née Black), 79, of Lehi, Utah, passed away leaving behind a legacy of laughter, resilience, and unconditional love. Born in 1936 in Bedrock, Colorado, Phyllis lived a life defined by her devotion to others. Though she called many states home—from the bayous of Louisiana to the coasts of Oregon and California—her heart was always wherever her family gathered.

Phyllis's greatest joy was found in the laughter of children. Whether she was working with special needs children or chasing her own grandkids, she possessed a rare empathy and a "special" sense of humor that could brighten the darkest room. Her proudest achievement was her family; she raised nine children with a strength that saw her through the difficult losses of her husband, Richard, and four of her children.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard Lowery; her children Clayton, Clyde, Lloyd, and Robin; her parents; and her three siblings. She is survived by her children, Melissa Hunt, Thomas (Maria) Lowery, Richard (Juliana) Lowery, and David (Cheri) Lowery; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

In honor of Phyllis's lifelong mission to comfort children, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, please donate a new stuffed animal to your local fire station, police station, or hospital. These "comfort bears" will be given to children in crisis, continuing Phyllis's legacy of care.