Phyllis A. Holmquist 

Passed away at Silver Cross Hospital, Sunday, August 2, 2026 at the age of 97 ½ years.

Born February 13, 1929 to Karl David and Anna M. Johnson, Phyllis was a lifelong Joliet resident. She attended Joliet Grade Schools and was a proud member of the Joliet Township High School Class of 1947 and class reunion committee. Phyllis was employed by the former W.T. Grant Company before becoming a full time homemaker. She was born into and remained a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where she met her future husband in the Luther League and was active on many committees and sang in the church choir. She also served many years in the Joliet Parent Teachers Association and as an election judge.

Preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Howard D. Holmquist, son-in-law Robert L. Farkas, her parents, in-laws and sisters Corinne Hanstrom, Elizabeth McWilliams, Martha Beverly, Alice Peet and Gladys Smith, her brothers Charles and Gene Johnson. Her brothers and sister-in-law and several nieces, nephews and endeared pets.

Phyllis is survived by her daughter Laurie A. Holmquist Farkas and her son Larry H. (Cindy) Holmquist of Greensboro, N.C. She was an aunt and great aunt to many but especially enjoyed her title of “Great Great Aunt Phyllis.” Phyllis also enjoyed conversation and correspondence with her cousins in Sweden.

Phyllis was a people person. In her own words, “I loved to smile, sing, laugh, have fun, help others, entertain, bowl and work or spend time in the yard.” She enjoyed sports and passed time with the Cubs, the Bears and U of I Football and Basketball Teams. Phyllis could work a room like a seasoned politician and made friends with everyone she met. She made the most of everyday and now rests, happily in heaven.

Lying in State at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 412 E. Benton St. Friday, August 14, 2026 from 10:00 A.M. until time of services at 11:00 A.M. Rev. Rodney A. Juell officiating. Interment Elmhurst Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Lightways Hospice, Tender Loving Care or Friends of Sunny Hill Nursing Home will be appreciated. Visitation will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.