Phyllis I. Fredrick, 77, passed away on Sept. 23, 2026, in Columbia.
She was born on Sept. 27, 1948, to the late Dale Esther and Helen Martley in Lebanon.
She graduated from Lebanon High School in Lebanon and later earned a Certificate in Business from Rolla Area Vocational/Technical School.
Phyllis was raised with a strong work ethic, a generous heart, and a deep love for animals and family.
She was an independent and hardworking woman who built a life around her many talents and passions. Phyllis owned and operated a commercial cleaning company before expanding her business into residential cleaning. She also owned P&J Appaloosas and P&J Kennels, including her own dog breeding facility. Her love for animals extended into her professional life as well, as she worked as a veterinary technician for a local veterinary clinic. Later in life, Phyllis worked in the laundry service at Westphalia Retirement Center. Even after retirement, she remained active and involved in her community, working part-time for Head Start and volunteering at PEP Vet Clinic in Bland.
Phyllis had a heart for animals and loved caring for them. She also treasured spending time with her family, traveling, shopping, and making those around her laugh. She enjoyed watching crime shows, coloring, collecting a glass from every restaurant she visited, and barrel racing. Her many interests reflected her adventurous, playful, and caring spirit.
Phyllis was also a cherished member of Bland Christian Church, where she found fellowship, community and a place to grow in her faith. Her involvement with the church was an important part of her life, and she treasured the friendships and connections she made there.
Phyllis will be remembered for her love of animals, her devotion to her family, her spunky spirit, and her ability to bring laughter and joy to those around her. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Phyllis was preceded in death by parents, Dale and Helen Martley and Kerin Redden (Fredrick).
She is survived by husband, Jim; children, Joe Miller and wife Tina, Tony Miller and wife Michelle and Brandi Kremer and husband Jeremy;
grandchildren, Mia and Ali Miller, Collin Miller and wife Cassidy, Logan Miller and wife Maddie, Kaleb Miller, Jacob Hill and fiancé, Peyton Kusgen, Dorian Hill, Kahne Brandt and Koen Caldwell; great-grandchildren, Brynlee, Magnolia, Granger and Bryor Miller, Jesse Hill and Saylor Procter; siblings, Rogenia Esther, Ron Esther, Ken Esther, and her twin brother, Phil Esther; and many loved extended family members and friends.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Sept. 28, at Bland Christian Church in Bland. Interment was in Bland Union Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to the Bland Christian Church or PEP (Protect Every Pet).
Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle.
