Myrtle Martha (Killian) Phelps

Mrs. Myrtle Martha Phelps (née Killian), age 91, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, in Madison, Ohio. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she lived a life marked by dedication to family, community, and quiet acts of kindness.

Born on June 10, 1934, in North Girard (now Lake City), Pennsylvania, Myrtle was the daughter of Frederick Roy Killian and Laura Eva Derby. She grew up the middle child, caring for her brother William Killian and sister Rose Fiesler after her father left and her mother worked at Marx toys.

Myrtle married LeRoy G. Phelps, with whom she shared a remarkable union of 70 years until his passing on March 6, 2021. Together they built a loving home and raised two daughters: Lisa A. Watson, D.O. (Bill) and Lori A. Phelps, JD., who carry forward her legacy of strength and compassion.

In the late 1950s or early 1960s, Myrtle worked as a beautician at the Suburban House of Beauty. Later, after her daughters reached middle school age, she began working as a secretary at Elk Valley Elementary School-a role she held with pride and commitment for 27 years. Her presence there left a lasting impression on generations of students and staff alike.

A lifelong member of the Girard Presbyterian Church, Myrtle’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Her devotion extended beyond worship; she expressed her care for others through her hands-knitting, crocheting, and engaging in various needle crafts. Her greatest passion was quilting. With remarkable skill and generosity, she created quilts from upholstery fabric specifically for those experiencing homelessness-offering warmth not only in fabric but in spirit.

Myrtle cherished time spent with her family. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Lisa and Lori; Son-in-law Bill, step-grandson Bud Watson (Rebecca); great-grandchildren Levi and Caroline Watson; Foster Grandchildren Shawn Logan, Chris Scott, April and Philip Bailey and Foster Great Grandchildren Tyler, Brooklyn, Kennedy, Londyn, Justin and "Perfect Angel Baby" Isaiah; niece Kathy Britt and her children Victoria and Nicole; nephew Robert Fiesler (Juanita) and their children Samantha and John; as well as several other nieces and nephews.

She now joins in rest her beloved husband LeRoy; her parents Frederick and Laura; brother William; sister Rose, Brother-in-law Nelson and Foster Grandson Corey.

A funeral service will be held at the Edder Family Funeral Home, 309 Main Street East, Girard, PA on Friday, August 1, 2025. Pastor James Friend of The Rock Church, Conneaut, OH officiating.  Internment to follow the funeral at Girard Cemetary.

Myrtle’s life was one of quiet grace and enduring love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Funeral calling hours will be held on August 1, 2025, from 09:00 AM to 11:00 am. Service to follow.
 

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