Strong, intelligent, musically talented, loving, a steadfast friend: Phyllis was all this and more. She was a great cook and a wonderful mother; she loved her husband and family deeply and with a fierce dedication. She was insightful, clever, thoughtful, and quick with a terrible pun. She was a word puzzle connoisseur, demolishing crosswords and solving Wheel of Fortune puzzles, often with only one or two letters revealed. An avid reader, she took pleasure in working her way through the stacks of her local library. She enjoyed mysteries, maritime novels, and biographies, and was always curious to learn about new subjects. You could expect to learn something new from any conversation with Phyllis! Phyllis continued her life-long love of music through decades of performance with local musical groups, most recently with the Mukilteo Community Orchestra where she regularly played first clarinet. When the occasion called for it, she put her bachelor's degree in music education to use and filled in as the conductor during rehearsals. Above all, Phyllis was an incredibly kind and compassionate person who gave generously of herself to support the people she loved. It was an honor to know and love her. Phyllis is survived by: Husband Kenneth W. Smith, Daughter Kelsey (Smith) Jackson, Daughter Lindsey Smith, Sister Janis Kiehl Harrison.
Submitted by Janis Kiehl Harrison
Jerry Kraft
Phyllis sounds like someone that I am sure her family was lucky to have. I did not know her but it sounds like her close relatives were very well informed and I am sure gained a lot mentally in her presence. A very smart woman. I guage my cognitive strength using wheel of fortune. Probably not perfect but at least it is fun. Sorry to hear the news. Phyllis is just another example of the great minds that graduated from Ingraham High School. Blessings to your family.
Betsy Otterson
I did not know Phyllis well, but felt I wanted to post what I did remember. We never know how we will be remembered or if we made a difference to someone along the way.
She was always very approachable, easy to talk to and friendly. Her smile lit up her whole face.
I am sure she will missed by many and send heartfelt condolences to her family.
Cindy Dutton
Phyllis Kiehl was the smartest person in our whole 6th grade at Northgate Elementary but her teacher was tougher on her so she got 9 A's and 1 C and I had an easier teacher and I got 9 A's and 1 B but she was way smarter than me. That's what I remember about her most from Grade School. She was the smart one.
Pam Hall (Erickson)
Phyllis was always kind and had a wonderful smile. Most of my memories were from her being involved in music. I am glad to learn she had a wonderful family and a full life.