Phyllis A. STARR

Phyllis A. Zirkle, 86, St. Joseph, passed away Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023. She was born Oct. 7, 1937, to Stephen J. and Ruth A. (Davison) Starr, in St. Joseph. She graduated from Benton High School in 1955. While in high school, she competed in the Miss St. Joseph Pageant. Phyllis married Ronald Zirkle on May 4, 1958. Together, they shared 65 years of marriage. Her commitment to local education shone brightly during her tenure as P.T.A. Council President of St. Joseph where she advocated for the welfare of students and teachers alike. She worked as a secretary at Truman, Bode, and Central. She was also a member of the Missouri Council of The Blind. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with loved ones during family gatherings. She played piano and sang in several choirs, sometimes leading them as a choir director at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Phyllis also enjoyed candy making and found solace in the company of cardinals. She was preceded in death by her husband, in September of 2023, and her parents. Survivors include her children, Timothy and Terry Zirkle, Starr and Darryl Richardson, Rod and Shelly Zirkle; six grandsons, Alexander and Gentry Richardson, Zachary and Kimberly Richardson, Colton and Leslie Zirkle, Dayton and Cassi Zirkle, Wyatt Zirkle, and Logan Zirkle; great-grandchildren, Grant and Audrey Richardson, Maverick Richardson,and Mallory Zirkle; sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews. Farewell Services 10 a.m. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service. The family suggests memorial contributions to Huffman Memorial United Methodist Church. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

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