Phyllis Penner

Phyllis Kathleen Penner, a beacon of love and selfless care, passed away on July 7, 2025, in Southlake, Texas, at the age of 74.

Born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, on June 23, 1951, Phyllis was the second of seven children. After graduating from West High School, she pursued her calling to care for others, earning her LPN degree from Friends University. Her faith and skills soon led her to volunteer for her church in Terrace, British Columbia. There, a twist of fate brought her the love of her life, Cory Penner, when he put his car in a ditch and found an angel singing in the choir. Their connection was undeniable, when Phyllis returned to Kansas, Cory declared his love, bringing her back to him. They were married on July 27, 1975 in Terrace.

The couple may have began their life together in Canada but after two babies, they returned to the US and raised all three children, Katrina, Karmalena, and Joshua, in Newton, Kansas. Phyllis masterfully balanced her roles, working nights as a compassionate nurse so she could be a present and dedicated mother. She had a special place in her heart for her most vulnerable patients, caring for severely handicapped children and babies with immense tenderness.

Phyllis's home was the heart of the family. She made everyone feel special, never forgetting a birthday and always giving a card with a cash gift matching the recipient's new age. Her generosity shone brightest during Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving, when she would prepare a big feast with lots of desserts, including her own recipe for "Phyllis' Cookies." Her instinct to nurture was boundless; she was a mother not only to her own children but to all of their friends as well. A faithful follower of Jesus, she instilled a strong foundation of faith in her children.

She found joy in simple pleasures: yard sales, thrift store shopping, and capturing countless memories through her camera lens. An avid reader, she shared this pastime with Cory. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she kept its spirit alive by watching festive movies all year long. Even in her last days, her instinct was to help and care for others. Her deep and committed love for her husband, Cory, was a testament to their vows, a partnership that lasted until her final moments, with him by her bedside.

She is now reunited with those who passed before her: her parents, George and Flossie Fosnight, and her older sister, Louise Walker.

Her legacy of love and unwavering kindness will be cherished forever by her survivors: her beloved husband, Cory Penner; her loving children, Katrina Penner, Karmalena Schuler, and Joshua Penner (wife Tasha); two adoring grandchildren, Jyra and George Schuler. She is also survived by her brothers Aaron Fosnight (wife Pat), Byron Fosnight (wife Karen), Keith Fosnight (wife Charlene), Richard Fosnight (wife Loretta), and her sister Michele Soest (husband Tim), along with 24 nieces and nephews and their families.