Phyllis Ann Staggs Kendrick

Phyllis Ann Staggs Kendrick, born March 29, 1941, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2026, peacefully in her home. She was laid to rest in Calico Rock, Arkansas beside her husband in their family cemetery. She was the daughter of Reba and Lendon F. (Jack) Staggs of Salem, Arkansas.

Phyllis was born in the same room as her father at Calico Rock in Izard County, Arkansas. She was the wife of Gerald Lynn Kendrick and was married after only knowing him for six months! They were married for 57 years before Gerald passed away. She was the mother of Mark Allen Kendrick (deceased) and Rachel Ann Kendrick Cox, mother-in-law to Michael Stewart Cox, and grandparents to Austin and Lindsey Cox who she adored and spoiled rotten, even remembering to get Lindsey some special jewelry for her wedding day.

She was a graduate of William Chrisman High School, class of 1960.

Phyllis loved being with people and had a great sense of humor, even with the hospice nurses who would come in to care for her along with her daughter Rachel. She often told funny stories to lighten the mood of her impending decline.

Besides being a mother, her most satisfying job was waitressing for 13 years at Mr. Steak Restaurant which was in Independence, Missouri in the 1980's. During those years many people enjoyed her efficiency and kindness. Phyllis also enjoyed painting, reading, making floral arrangements, crossword puzzles, genealogy, and any type of family history. She enjoyed the laughter around their swimming pool, whether it be friends, family, or the grandkids bringing their friends. Making memories and all of the laughter, that's what it was all about.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation, Inc., (AAMDSIF) 401 N. Washington Street, Suite 430, Rockville, MD 20850, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or the St. Judes Children's Hospital.

There will be a celebration of her life at Lux Premier Event Space, 17000 East U.S. Highway 40, Suite 5, Independence, MO on Wednesday, October 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. Finger foods will be provided.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)