Phyllis Marie HowertonHutchinson, KS

Phyllis Marie Howerton, 83, died April 6, 2025 at Hospice House, Hutchinson.  The daughter of Irvin and Iantha Young, she was born on August 27, 1941 at the Kingman Hospital.

From the age of five, Phyllis was raised on the family farm southwest of Kingman.  Phyllis attended elementary and middle school in Spivey, KS.  At the age of 10, she became active in 4-H where she enjoyed projects including foods, clothing, pigs and chickens.  Phyllis attended Kingman High School, where she met the love of her life, Dale Howerton, during her junior year.  She graduated in 1959 and went on to study at Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. Phyllis graduated with a degree in Education, with an emphasis in Home Economics in 1963, later earning her master’s degree in Home Economics Education from Kansas State University.

In the summer of 1962, Phyllis and Dale were married and moved to Moline, KS. After graduation, Phyllis worked for the County Attorney before accepting a Middle School Home Economics teaching position.  Two years later, they moved to Hutchinson, where they attended Park Place Christian Church and were both active members until late in their lives.  In 1966, Phyllis was hired by the Reno County Extension Office as the Assistant Home Economics Agent and was quickly promoted to Extension Agent.  She specialized in clothing and textiles, teaching many classes throughout the years.

In 1973, Dale and Phyllis welcomed their daughter, Erin, into the world.  Erin meant the world to them both and they took great pride in watching her participate in several sports and activities.

During her career, Phyllis’ title evolved to Family and Consumer Science Agent (FACS).  In this role, Phyllis specialized in clothing, foods, budgeting etc.  She especially enjoyed teaching classes attended by young mothers helping them learn basic life skills, allowing them more independence and confidence.  In 1997, Phyllis was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.  After 36 years of service, Phyllis retired from Extension in December of 2002.  During retirement, Phyllis enjoyed planting and growing beautiful flowers and being active in several church groups with some of her dearest friends.

Her granddaughters were one of her greatest joys!  Spending time with them gave Phyllis a chance to share with them her knowledge of baking and sewing.  She enjoyed doting on them and traveling with Dale when able.  Some of their happiest times were, fall family trips to Colorado and summers at Big Cedar in Missouri.

Phyllis is survived by her daughter, Erin (Dan) Rude and granddaughters Taia, Tenley and Lily, and sister-in-law, Phyllis Wohlford and her husband Dale.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband, brothers, Charles and Robert and sister-in-law Nancy, and brother-in-law, Orman and his wife Marie.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday June 6, 2025, at Park Place Christian Church, 2600 N. Adams, Hutchinson, with Pastor Jerry Muncy officiating.  Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Park Place Christian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.