Phyllis Ann Sandmann

Phyllis Ann Sandmann was born in Medicine Lodge, Kansas on April 28, 1934 to Philip R Banta and Agnes Z (Beal) Banta. Phyllis worked as a Central High School teacher where she met Charles Sandmann. She said it was nearly love at first site, and they were married on June 1, 1957.

For two decades Phyllis was the best mom ever, then was able to spend time teaching her grandchildren. Phyllis dedicated her time to several charities. Phyllis was initiated into PEO Chapter BF on February 24, 1960 which was her mother’s chapter, and was to be recognized at the Founders Day on Saturday for her 65th anniversary. Phyllis attended Chapter BF events since she was a child and fondly remembered the annual family summer picnics. She has been President of Chapter BF six times and a delegate to numerous state and international conventions starting in 1969. Phyllis was Co-Chairman of the state convention twice, then served as Chairman of the State Convention in 1985. She then was elected to the State Board in 1986, serving seven years before becoming President in 1992, with “Wind and Windmills, Women and P.E.O.” as her theme for the year. Phyllis served as ELF state chairman, appointed by Louise Adams. She then went on to serve as the second Chairman of the Oklahoma P.E.O. Projects Fund, Inc. board of directors, and served three more five-year terms on that board. Her work with P.E.O. remained a passion until her last days. Phyllis was also active in the Lyric Theater Guild. She always was interested in supporting her friends and family. Phyllis died in her home Thursday February 27, 2025 at age 90. Phyllis was survived by her sons, Charles William Jr. and David Dwight; grandchildren, Charles William III, Chase and Ashley, James and Catrina.

She was also survived by her great-grandchildren, Kenny Boren, and the light of her life, Jaina Sandmann (the first girl in this Sandmann family). Deborah Sandmann is considered a daughter and much loved.

Phyllis's husband Charles, grandchildren Christopher Neil and Carole Burke preceded her in death. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Oklahoma P.E.O. Projects Fund.

 Funeral Service will be held at 1pm on Monday March 3, 2025 at Smith & Kernke N May Avenue Chapel.