Phyllis VanDeMark

Phyllis VanDeMark, 92, of Bull Shoals, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at her home on December 16, 2024. Born on August 6, 1932, in Bunker Hill, Illinois, she was the daughter of Cleo and Winifred Eades Waters. On July 21, 1951, Phyllis married Douglas VanDeMark in Wood River, Illinois. Over the years, she worked as a sales clerk at several retail establishments.

Phyllis moved to Bull Shoals from Stony Point, New York, in 1990, and quickly became a beloved member of the community. She was the last remaining charter member of the Bull Shoals Fire Department Auxiliary, where she served with dedication. Phyllis also volunteered at the Little Bit Used Shop, the Bull Shoals Theater, and the Bull Shoals Chamber of Commerce. A devoted wife and mother, Phyllis played a central role in supporting her husband, Douglas, and was known for being the first to keep him in line.

Phyllis is survived by her sons, Doug (Clairisse) VanDeMark of Bull Shoals, AR, and David Robbins of Bull Shoals, AR; daughters, Deborah (Sheila) Prisco of Greely, PA, and Deanna (William) Thorpe of Middletown, NY; grandchildren, Paul, Cheryl, Michael, Brendon, Mathew, and Eva; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Leonard VanDeMark, Sr., her parents, and two sisters, Doris Hambleton and Marilyn Whittington.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bull Shoals Fire Department Auxiliary.