Phyllis Jean Johns, age 87, a long-time resident of Elwood, died Thursday, December 18, 2014 at Miller's Merry Manor in Tipton after an extended illness. She was born December 18, 1927 in Elwood, the daughter of Vernon and Nellie (McQuitty) Knotts. Phyllis was formerly employed at Delco Remy Corporation in Anderson for a short time; she then worked at Steven's Spring Company in Elwood for 10 years. She managed Circle Pizza in downtown Elwood, and later managed the Ranch Motel for the Flannigan family. She also worked at her brother's business, Safe-T-Aid in Elwood. In 1987, she retired from General Tire Company in Marion where she had worked in production for more than 24 years. Phyllis married Robert Lewis Johns on July 13, 1946. She loved Indiana Pacers basketball; enjoyed reading; and crocheting. She also enjoyed watching the Food channel on was known as a great cook herself.

Phyllis' family includes 4 children, Milton L. (wife Carol) Johns of Idaho, Claren Johns of Elwood, Mike Johns of Windfall, and Susan (companion Dan Cooper) Melvin of Elwood; siblings; Mary Lou Walker of Frankfort, Delores Barnes of Middletown, Robert (wife Carolyn) Knotts of Elwood, Danny Joe (wife Molly) Knotts of Florida, Virginia Ozenbaugh of Elwood, and Gary (wife Sue) Knotts of Noblesville; 2 step-sisters, Mary Lou Tracy of Elwood and Linda Frye of Elwood; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of more than 49 years, Robert Johns who died August 23, 1995; son, Bobby Johns; sister, Verna Mae Nichols; step-mother Thelma Knotts; step-father, Joe Davis; and companion Lawrence "Boogie" Faulstich. The family wishes to thank the staff of Miller's Merry Manor and Guardian Angels Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Phyllis.

A funeral service celebrating Phyllis' life will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 22, 2014 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Jesse Wolf officiating. Burial will follow in the Elwood City Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 to 6 PM on Sunday, December 21, 2014 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Elwood Animal Shelter. Online condolences: www.copherfeslermay.com.