Phyllis Joan Tomlinson of Temple, Texas passed away on November 30, 2024, at the age of 97. She was born January 18, 1927, in Pioneer, Ohio, the daughter of Dale and Evelyn (Hollstein) Hillard.
After graduating from Pioneer High School, she attended Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, where she received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education.
She also held a Real Estate license and Auctioneer’s license. Having taught first grade for thirty years, she retired and traveled throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe.
For many years Phyllis was devoted to the humane treatment of animals and supported many animal causes. She was also an advocate for Native American rights, and actively supported work toward improving their quality of life.
Her many interests included her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, gardening, genealogy and travel. Her survivors include a son, Michael Tomlinson of Jonesboro, Arkansas, daughter Kathleen Midler of Juneau, Alaska, and daughter Carol Tomlinson of Belton, Texas. Phyllis also had seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any gift offered be instead to Phyllis’ favorite charity, Haven Mountain in North Carolina: www.havenmountain.org/. Haven Mountain is a non-profit dedicated to the rescue of abused and neglected horses and other equines.
Phyllis will be laid to rest at Floral Grove Cemetery in Pioneer. A memorial service will take place in the spring of 2025. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.