Phyllis Reka (Lessman) VanZandt, 71, of Fayetteville went peacefully to meet her Savior on Tuesday, September 3, 2013 after a long fight with cancer. Born to the late Henry and Gladys Lessman on August 22, 1942 in Caney, Kansas. She married Bill VanZandt, her best friend, for 51 years on April 27, 1962 and they resided in Fayetteville for last 40 years. Preceded in death by her parents, her brother and his wife. Her in-laws, Samuel "Bill" and Mildred VanZandt, two brothers in-law and one sister-in-law. Survived by her husband Bill (Bus driver with Fayetteville Schools); sisters Kathleen (Fred) and Carolyn (Tom) and their families. Three daughters, Brenda, Barbara, and Cyndie. Grandsons - Benjamin, Mason, and Trail. Granddaughters - Heather, Thelishia, and Jhurnei. Also, Jennifer, whom we have a special appreciation for helping Phyllis in her final weeks of life. Great Grandchildren - Keely, John, Jackson, Kaden, and Kyle. Many nieces and nephews, their spouses and children. A host of friends and loved ones. Phyllis loved being a member of Cross Church, Fayetteville, and being a member of Caleb Connection senior class there. She was an employee at Walmart 359 for more than 25 years. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Phyllis VanZandt's name at any Arvest Bank location to help toward funeral expenses. Celebration of her life will be at the Cross Church (3484 West Wedington Drive) in Fayetteville on Saturday, September 7, at 10:30 am. Celebration of her life will also be held on Saturday, September 14, 2013, at 10:30 am at the Caney Lutheran Church. Online tributes to the family may be made at www.bentoncountymemorialpark.com Arrangements are with Benton County Memorial Park Funeral Home and Crematory of Rogers, Arkansas. Memorial 10:30 AM Saturday, September 7th, 2013
Cross Church 3484 West Wedington in Fayetteville, Arkansas
Memorial 10:30 AM Saturday, September 14th, 2013
Caney Lutheran Church in Caney, Kansas