The Life of PHYLLIS T FELLMAN
January 25, 1931 - December 9, 2015
Phyllis Smith Fellman, 84, passed away peacefully at home on December 9, 2015, surrounded by her loving family. Phyllis was born January 25, 1931, in Des Moines, Iowa to Theodore and Florence (Thompson) Fellman. She grew up in Des Moines and was a graduate of East High School. Phyllis married Robert Smith in January 1949. They resided in six states over the span of Bob’s naval career. They returned to Iowa in 1966, and settled in Bondurant. She and Bob divorced in 1987, but remained friends.
It was then, she moved to The Plaza in Des Moines where she lived for the remainder of her life. Phyllis loved downtown living and all it had to offer including restaurants, Civic Center, Festivals, and of course Farmer’s Market. She helped plan many of The Plaza’s social events and was fondly named “Queen of The Plaza”. She was strong, courageous, and a lover of life and had many interests and talents. She was an accomplished seamstress, enjoyed traveling, and was a shopping enthusiast. Above all, she cherished her children and grandchildren.
Over the years, Phyllis held many administrative office positions and retired from Baldwin White Architects in 1997. She then took a part time position with The Plaza Condominiums where she continued to work until 2014.
Phyllis is survived by her daughter Debra Ault and her husband Gary. Sons Richard Smith, Patrick Smith, Ted Smith, and Jeffrey Smith. Ten grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, sister Shirley (Al) Beruman, brother Carl (Shirley) Fellman, many nieces and nephews, and long time devoted friend and companion Ronald Schulz.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 14, 2015, at St. Ambrose Cathedral Chapel 6th and High St. Des Moines, Iowa. Private family burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens in Des Moines, Iowa. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ambrose Cathedral, Animal Rescue League of Iowa, or the charity of your choice in Phyllis’ memory.