Phyllis R. Serpa

Long time Fallon resident Phyllis R. Serpa 65, passed away at Renown Medical Center on Monday, June 9, 2008 after a long illness with her family by her side.

Phyllis was born December 17, 1942 in Clarion, Iowa to Rex and Loretta Steffens. She was raised in Rowan, Iowa. Upon graduating, she attended the University of Northern Iowa, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Education.

In her later years she attended Chapman University at Fallon Air Station attaining a Masters Degree in Human Resources.

Phyllis moved to Fallon in 1968 from Florida. She taught school in Florida for five years and after moving to Fallon she went to work for the State of Nevada Child and Family Services, a job she retired from as the District Office Manager dedicating 28 years of service. After her retirement she worked under contract for the State another 3 years.

Phyllis loved playing card games, making afghans for all her family, but most of all it was her family that always was first, the holiday dinners, the grandkids ball games, she was all about family.

She is preceded in death by her parents; sister Connie Berns and nephew Anthony Berns.

Phyllis is survived by her husband John Serpa; her children Tami and Chris DuFresne of Carson City, Shari and Doyle Nicholson of Fallon, Ilene and Bruce Jonas of Elko, Jan and Dave Nelson of Sheridan, Wyo., John and Kandy Kent of Alpharetta, Ga., granchildren Trey, Cole, J.D., Quinn, Bailey, Steven, Kelly, Katy, Kelly Ann, and Carson; numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends.

The family wishes donations be made to Churchill Arts Council PO Box 2204 Fallon, NV 89407

A Celebration of Life service will be 11 a.m., Friday at The Gardens Chapel in Fallon.

Arrangements are under the direction of The Gardens Funeral Home 2949 Austin Highway Fallon, NV 89406 775 423-8928.