Phyllis Jean Oswald

Phyllis Jean (Minegar) Oswald, age 92, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, peacefully at her son, Brian's home in Elkhart with her family by her side. Phyllis was born on December 28, 1933, in Syracuse, Indiana, to the late William Henry and Mabel Helen (Fish) Minegar. Following her graduation from Concord High School, she married Ralph C. Oswald on May 19, 1956. Together they shared more than 43 years of marriage before Ralph's passing in 1999. Phyllis worked for Miles Laboratories before dedicating herself to raising her family. She later worked for Whitehall Industries until her retirement in 1991.

She is survived by her children, Ralph W. (Sheryl) Oswald of Tennessee, Melonie Gerschoffer of Elkhart, and Brian (Jody) Oswald of Elkhart; her sister, Shirley Cook of Elkhart; and her beloved cat, Téa. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; her son-in-law, Steven Gerschoffer; brothers Robert, Raymond, Keith, Donald, Marvin Minegar, and Hershel Emmons; and sisters Juanita Minegar and Carol A. Bruce.

Phyllis was a woman of great faith, and one of Jehovah's Witnesses, attending the Elkhart North Kingdom Hall for many years.

Phyllis enjoyed life and rarely passed up an opportunity for a day of shopping or an adventure. She was a hard worker who loved her family above all else. She often shared stories of her childhood and the wonderful memories she made growing up. She loved her parents, her children, and the many family trips they took across the United States together.

Phyllis had a quick wit, a positive outlook, and a personality that drew people to her. She loved animals and nature. When she found several abandoned baby bunnies, she cared for them until they could be released back into the wild. She also enjoyed flowers and spending time outdoors.

An avid sports fan, Phyllis enjoyed watching NCAA football, the NCAA basketball tournament, the Chicago Bears, The Masters, and the World Cup. She loved cars and could identify nearly any make or model on the road. She was also a talented singer who loved harmonizing with her sister Shirley and brother Marvin whenever the opportunity arose. She never turned down a Green River float from the South Side Diner in Goshen.

Most of all, Phyllis will be remembered for the love she had for her family. She was loved by all who knew her and leaves behind countless memories that will be cherished for years to come.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the staff of Traditions Health / The Care Team Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided during Phyllis's final months.

A celebration of her life will be held at the Elkhart North Kingdom Hall at a later date. Cruz Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with her care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Phyllis's memory to Jehovah's Witnesses at jw.org or to Traditions Hospice.

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