Phyllis Joan Ecklund

Phyllis Joan Massey was born in Manhattan, KS on August 23rd, 1947. She was the daughter of Charles “Charlie” Santford Massey and Ethel May (McCurdy) Massey. Phyllis transitioned from the physical world on Friday, October 11th, 2024, after a brave fight against cancer. She was 77 years old.

Growing up in Eskridge, KS, Phyllis developed an interest in music that continued throughout her adult life. She learned to play the piano in her early years and was classically trained to sing as a young adult. In high school, Phyllis participated in the Glee Club, vocal competitions, and choir. After she graduated from Eskridge High School in 1965, her love for music continued as she played piano for her church for many years and sang in the community choir.

In 1966, Phyllis married William “Bill” Jasper Mix on October 9th. They joined together in their mutual love for music and the two became a dynamic duo with Bill singing or playing his trumpet and Phyllis singing and playing the piano. They often provided special music at their church or special events. Phyllis and Bill had two children: Theresa A. Mix and Rebecca S. (Mix) Bentham. Both daughters followed in their parents’ footsteps and became musicians. The four were often known as “The Singing Mix’s.” Bill preceded Phyllis in death on June 15th, 1992.

In 1998, Phyllis married William “Bill” Franklin Ecklund on August 15th. Bill was a cattleman. Born a small-town girl, Phyllis learned new skills…raising cattle and living in the country. The two enjoyed going to fairs and traveling to historic sites in Kansas. While they were married, Phyllis became a grandmother of two: Roderick D. Bentham II and Arianna V. Bentham. Grandma and Grandpa took great pleasure in spoiling their grandchildren. Bill preceded Phyllis in death on November 12th, 2011.

Phyllis had two siblings, Pearl C. (Massey) Paul Sisson and John S. Massey. John preceded Phyllis in death on February 9th, 1983. Pearl preceded Phyllis in death on December 16th, 2015.

Phyllis is survived by her two daughters, stepdaughter Michelle Ecklund, two grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Phyllis’s legacy of love and music will carry forward the memories of a blessed life.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at the Eskridge Cemetery, 8 Mile Rd & Peony RD, Eskridge, Kansas with a graveside service at 11:00 am. A celebration of Phyllis' life will take place at the Eskridge Senior Center, 208 S. Main St. in Eskridge following the service from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. 

Memorial contributions in Phyllis' memory may be made to either the Helping Hands Humane Society or to the American Cancer Society.