Phyllis Anne Gatliff, 82, Carthage, Missouri, passed away Monday evening, November 2, 2020, at Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park, Kansas.
Phyllis was born February 21, 1938, in Carthage, the daughter of James W. Lee, Sr., and Esther (Phillips) Lee. She was a 1956 graduate of Carthage High School. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Southwest Missouri State and her Master of Music Education degree from Pittsburg State University. Phyllis married Paul Dean Gatliff on June 18, 1961, in Springfield, Missouri. She worked as a music teacher for the elementary schools in Carthage, Missouri. For several years she served as church pianist and choir director at Christ’s Church, Oronogo, Missouri and later as bell choir director at the First United Methodist Church, Carthage where she was a member.
Survivors include two sons, David Gatliff (Roxy), Peculiar, Missouri, and Stephen Gatliff, Sterling, Virginia; a grandson, Gabriel Gatliff (Danielle), Leawood, Kansas; a brother, Tom Lee, Four Oaks, North Carolina; a sister, Lois Lee Bradley, Durham, North Carolina; a sister-in-law, Marianna Lee, Carthage; and many extended family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul Dean Gatliff; and a brother, James W. Lee, Jr.
Private family graveside services will be held. Phyllis will lie in state from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday, November 5, 2020, and from 8 am to 11 am, Friday, November 6, 2020, at Knell Mortuary for those who wish to sign the register book and pay respects. Memorial gifts are suggested to a charity of one’s choice that helps others in need, in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
