Phyllis Beckwith

Phyllis Beckwith (née Roberts), 100, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Kingston of Vermilion following a brief illness.

Born on July 24, 1925, in Rochester, New York, Phyllis grew up during the Great Depression and graduated from West High School in 1943 alongside the young man who would become the love of her life, Richard Beckwith. They were married in 1948 and shared 75 wonderful years together, building a home centered on love, family, and faith. Together they raised three children, enjoyed more than four decades wintering in Largo, Florida, and created countless memories with family and friends. Seven years ago, Phyllis made Vermilion her home, where she spent her final years close to family.

Although Phyllis worked as a secretary for several years, her life's greatest calling was caring for those she loved. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, patience, and gentle spirit made everyone feel welcome. Her happiest moments were those spent surrounded by family.

Phyllis appreciated the beauty in everyday life. She found joy watching birds visit her yard, tending flowers in her garden, and losing herself in a good book. Music was a lifelong passion, and she loved to sing in choirs whenever she had the opportunity. She was also an enthusiastic sports fan who rarely missed the chance to cheer on her favorite teams.

She will be deeply missed by her son, John Stuart (Shari) Beckwith of Vermilion; her daughters, Barbara (John) McGowan of Fredericktown, Ohio, and Sandra Beckwith of Oregon; her cherished grandchildren, Brian (Rachel) Beckwith, Adam (Ashley) Beckwith, Kelly (Rick) Barkschat, Phillip Hall, Jonathan (Christi) McGowan, and Josh (Andrea) McGowan; and six beloved great-grandchildren.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Eugene Beckwith, in 2023, parents, Herman and Beatrice Roberts and by her sister, Beryl.

Private inurnment will take place at White Haven Memorial Park in Rochester, New York.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Ritter Public Library Foundation, 5680 Liberty Avenue, Vermilion, OH 44089 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.