Phyllis Schnitzius

Tribute

Phyllis Ann Schnitzius, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida, her most recent residence. She was born August 26, 1944, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to the late Clarence and Nancy Wheeler (Garnett). She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Jerry Schnitzius; her siblings, R. Samuel Wheeler, Barbara Arnold, and Alice Sapp; her children, Tom Utterback, Jon Utterback, Holly Hine, Allen Utterback, and Micah Hine; her stepchildren, Eleanor Schnitzius and Matthew Schnitzius; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Peggy Marple and Nancy Krause, and her brother, Charles Wheeler. Phyllis was a 1962 graduate of Harry E. Wood High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, where she was a member of the Senior Honor Society, Tri-Hi-Y, and served as Senior Class Secretary. In her early 30s, she proudly served in the Indiana National Guard. Phyllis was a gifted artist, painter, and interior decorator. She owned her own decorating business and left her artistic touch on many homes and businesses across the country, including Michigan, San Diego, and Florida. She found joy in sharing her artwork with loved ones and had a deep appreciation for art and music. She loved the beach and quiet moments reading on her lanai. She was a beautiful soul, inside and out, and will be missed enormously. She had a rare gift for truly listening, making those around her feel heard, valued, and like a friend. She brought joy and light to the world, and would want to be remembered in that same spirit. No formal services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be planned for Phyllis at a later date.

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