Phyllis Marie Plotts, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, died Sept. 27, 2026, at Gunnison Valley Health Senior Care Center after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 91. She was born Sept. 11, 1935, in Forksville, Pennsylvania, to Harry and Irene (Rhodes) McCarty. Phyllis’ life was a beautiful blend of dedication to her family, her work and her community, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth.
Phyllis grew up in a close-knit family alongside her sister, Genevieve, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 6, 1955, she married her devoted husband, Sidney Bruce Plotts, in Dushore, Pennsylvania. Together, they built a life full of joy over 71 years of marriage and traveled extensively, visiting all 50 states, as well as Germany, Scotland, Ireland and Argentina. Phyllis especially enjoyed their trips to Branson, Missouri, during the holidays. Sidney survives her, cherishing the many years they spent together.
Her professional life began shortly after high school when she joined Sullivan County Telephone Company as a telephone switchboard operator, manually connecting calls by plugging cords into a switchboard. The company later became Commonwealth Telephone Company, where she continued working until 1980. In 1981, she embarked on a new chapter as a lunch lady for the Elk Lake School District in Pennsylvania, where she touched the lives of countless children until 1994. That same year, Phyllis and Sidney relocated to Gunnison, where they have owned and operated Plotts Mini Storage ever since. Their son Martin has taken over the business in recent years.
Phyllis’ heart was always open, and her kitchen table was the heart of her home. Friends and family were always greeted with a hot cup of coffee and an array of snacks, creating a warm haven for conversation and laughter. Her generosity and kindness were hallmarks of her character, making everyone feel cherished and welcome.
Phyllis is survived by her loving husband, Sidney; her beloved son, Martin Leo Plotts, and his wife, Roberta; her cherished grandchildren, Kyla and her husband, Joseph Jones, and Martay and her husband, Justin Christopher; her great-grandchildren, Chloe, Gabriel, and Teagan Jones, and Chloe Christopher; and her great-great-grandson, Dalton Holstein. Phyllis’ dear friend, Carol Jeroslow, held a special place in her heart, providing companionship and support through the years.
A private graveside service was held at Gunnison Cemetery.
