Phyllis Howell, a remarkable and beloved wife and mother, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at the University of Michigan Hospital. She had suffered a heart attack in her home ten days prior. Phyllis, born on February 21, 1955, in Jamestown, NY, was the daughter of William Chapin Keyes and Pauline Phyllis (Sparling) Keyes.
Phyllis graduated from Greece Arcadia High School in 1973. Her talent and dedication were recognized early on when she won a piano competition in High School, allowing her to perform with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. She then pursued higher studies at SUNY-Fredonia in New York, and obtained her Master of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Michigan. Throughout her musical journey, Phyllis had the privilege of studying under esteemed teachers, including her own mother (Pauline Keyes), Claudette Sorel, and Theodore Lettvin. Additionally, she spent a year at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London.
Enthusiastic in sharing her love of music, she went on to immerse herself in the vibrant musical community of Ann Arbor. As a passionate teacher, she immediately grew a studio of 40 students after her graduation. Phyllis offered piano lessons in her home and was especially talented at accompanying and sight-reading, accompanying numerous students at local schools as well as accompanying and even once directing the Michigan Women’s Glee Club.
She left a lasting impact on her students and those who had the privilege of hearing her play at weddings, birthdays, churches, nursing homes, and hospitals. Phyllis' vivacious spirit was infectious; her quick wit, vibrant laugh, and love for singing and dancing illuminated every room she entered. She frequently engaged in square dancing and clogging, further enriching her life and the lives of those around her.
As a woman of deep faith and a devoted prayer warrior, she attended several churches throughout her life, including Lakeside, Northside, Cornerstone, Knox, Northridge, and 2|42. In addition to her role as a mother and homemaker, Phyllis undertook the task of educating all five of her children in various subjects, starting from kindergarten and continuing well into their high school studies. Her dedication and love for her family were boundless, and the walls of her home reverberated with beautiful piano notes every evening as her children listened and dozed in their beds. Phyllis was an avid animal lover, caring for multiple dogs, cats, chickens, and goats throughout her life, even nursing the runts of litters when rejected by their mothers.
Phyllis is survived by her husband, James Howell; and her children, Jesse Howell (m. Debbie) of Ann Arbor, Genevieve Howell of Grand Rapids, Austin Howell of Seattle, WA, Christina Howell of Asheville, NC, and Barak Howell of Dexter, MI. She also leaves behind her siblings, Cheryl Brinkman, Clifford "Kip" Keyes, and Greg Keyes (m. Kathy); her uncle Wayne Sparling (m. Cora); and numerous nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind two adored grandchildren, Benjamin and Victoria Howell. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Pauline and William Keyes, as well as her brother-in-law Kevin Brinkman.
Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea on Saturday, June 24th, from 2-5 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at Misty Farm, beginning with socialization/games at 5 p.m. and the service at 6 p.m. All are welcome and we look forward to celebrating as Phyllis loved best: with friendship, music, games, and food.
Location addresses:
Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 E. Middle St. Chelsea, MI 48118
Misty Farm, 8040 Scio Church Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Samaritan’s Purse or 2|42 Church.
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