FanStory.com
"Saying Goodbye to Phyllis"


Chapter 1
Remembering Phyllis Stewart

By robyn corum

A timeline --
Please pardon the fact that I'm still in the 'technical'/'factual' mode for the moment.  The 'emotional' route would be far too difficult right now.  (Working up to that.)   *smile*

January 8th- 11 pm- CST --
Popping onto FanStory late in the evening, I was shocked to find two different messages - one from lyenochka,  one from Thomas Bowling - telling me that Phyllis Stewart was terribly ill and in the hospital.

She and I had talked about such circumstances just recently and had swapped numbers, just in case. Though it was late, I started going through my phone, looking to see if I could find her contact number or that of her husband, Mark's.  I was crying.  My hands were shaking.  

Without my reading glasses, and through a flood of salt-water, I attempted to pull up one of the numbers to text a message (one the recipient could obviously reply to at their leisure).  But I hit the wrong button and pressed CALL instead.  (At 11:30 pm -- good job, roro.)   Mark answered.

We ended up talking 20-30 minutes.  He said the doctors had made our dear friend as comfortable as possible and she was only expected to last a couple more days.  At least, that was my understanding.  

*


January 9th- 11 am- CST --
Less than twelve hours later, at 11 am, Mark texted to say Phyllis had passed at 9:15 am CST.

To say that Mark is devastated is an... understatement of the worst sort.  This man loved his wife in the way every woman can only wish for.    He truly needs our prayers for strength in the days ahead - as well does their daughter, Katy.

I will tell you this.  My stories to him last night, about Phyllis, the Phyllis WE all knew, gave him quite a bit of comfort.  Though she shared some bits of her health struggles with some of us all along - usually with a dose of laughter - things were so much worse than we could ever imagine, and for so much longer than we ever knew.  While our friend was pretty much trapped/jailed/nailed to a slowly shrinking world, THIS world -- OUR world -- became the galaxy where she could still fly free.  

PLEASE.  If you have memories, moments, lessons, thoughts, ideas - anything - you shared with Phyllis through the years...would you consider taking a few minutes and writing them down to share with her family?  In a poem?  In a limerick (she loved those, remember?!)  In a short story or skit or message or montage or...  you fill in the blank...  

I can promise you, each piece you share (and you're welcome to share more than one!) will be a blessing for Mark and Katy today, from the very moment we start sharing them.  But, remember, they will be blessings tomorrow, and next Thursday, and in October of 2039, and on, and on... 

Let's get started.  



 

Author Notes Author Notes:
Okay, I know this is probably far too sappy, but that's where I'm at, guys. You'll have to deal with it for the moment. (Sorry?) Just overlook me. Know I appreciate you all when you can do that. *smile*

(Please copy and paste everything BELOW this line in YOUR author notes when you post:)
***************************************

TO ADD TO THE BOOK:
Go to ANYONE'S post in Phyllis's tribute book. Find the button at the bottom of the page to: 'Add a Chapter'. Start from there to add your post.

Please number the chapters consecutively.

Yes - your post WILL stay in your own portfolio.

***




Chapter 2
Remembering Phyllis

By robyn corum











We will all miss Phyllis. She’s left a permanent mark on Fanstory and in our hearts. I loved her wonderful balance of intelligence and wit that shone through all her writings. She could write about anything and make it fun and engaging. 

I first started following her writings when she wrote her Speechless novel. She made an interesting mix of mystery and romance.  (I don’t like romance so it was amazing she kept my interest!) Then she reviewed my posts and gave me such helpful advice. 

And of course, we all loved her production with Thomas Bowling - the Bowl of Stew. 

When we’re stumped, and don’t know what to do
We could count on the old ‘Bowl of Stew’
With her humor and flair
She would solve each affair
Oh, dear Phyllis, how much we’ll miss you!

Phyllis didn’t write about how bad she was doing. Although last year, she said  that she was dying, and I didn’t want to believe her. I think about how different it would be if she were healthy and doing all she wanted to do.
 
Wish I knew you before
when your artistic eye
filmed the world that you explored
when you raised little puppies
when you had that clothing line of Katyduds 

*Sigh*

Instead you opened the door
To a universe for us to explore
Of childhood sweethearts who meet
Of a man who could read thoughts
Of a man who repented and wanted to right wrongs
...

Thank you, Phyllis, for all these writings and for showing us such a courageous spirit even when your body was failing. Thank you for encouraging, teaching, and making us laugh. We’ll always remember you!


 

Author Notes Notes: Thanks to Robyn for setting up this book.
If you would like to contribute these are the steps:
Go to ANYONE'S post in Phyllis's tribute book. Find the button at the bottom of the page to: 'Add a Chapter'. Start from there to add your post.
Please number the chapters consecutively.
Yes - your post WILL stay in your own portfolio.


Chapter 3
The Almond Tree

By robyn corum

According to the Urban Dictionary, Phyllis is a person who is intelligent and extremely empathetic. She always does for others and puts everyone's needs above her own. How well this seems to encapsulate the spirit of our departed friend.

In Greek legend, Phyllis was changed to an almond tree after her death. We have several almond trees on our property. When they burst into blossom each spring, I shall be reminded of Phyllis. When the raucous parrots swoop down in the autumn to pillage our entire crop of nuts, I shall be reminded of Bowl of Stew. A sense of humour can carry one through most things, even - when it comes to it - the creeping shadow of death.

Rest in peace, dear lady. Enjoy your new-found freedom.

Author Notes TO ADD TO THE BOOK:
Go to ANYONE'S post in Phyllis's tribute book. Find the button at the bottom of the page to: 'Add a Chapter'. Start from there to add your post.

Permission to use the image "Spring is coming" by dragifortuna on FanArtReview.com is acknowledged with thanks


Chapter 4
Farewell Is Not Forever

By robyn corum















 
 Farewell is Not Forever

I sit here by the window with a pain so deep inside; 
I know I’m being selfish but I wish you hadn’t died.
You’ve left us devastated, but our hearts know you were right.
You had to leave your world of pain and bid us all goodnight.

And now you’re climbing mountains, and you’re running through the fields;
you’re flying high in Heaven, now, God’s joy in you revealed.
You’re sitting on His lap again, you are His special child,
and looking into Jesus’ eyes, you’re basking in his smile.

My dear, you know I'll miss you, but I'm pleased you're free of pain.
Farewell, is not goodbye, my friend, it's till we meet again.

God Bless my friend.


 


 

Author Notes I've known Phyllis since the day she joined FS. What is it going to be like without her?


Chapter 6
Goodbye is Not Always Easy

By robyn corum

When I heard the news of Phyllis being so sick, and at death's door, I could not stop crying. She had been on my heart for some time and in my prayers.

I always loved looking for her posts on Fanstory, as I knew it would be something to make me smile, even if my day wasn't going good.

I loved when she would post her poems with the little penguins. Penguins, in real life, are one of my favorite little animals.

God blessed Phyllis with a good sound mind to write and share with us. I was so thankful to call her my friend.

When the update came that she had passed I was so happy she was not suffering any more.
Please don't get me wrong, I do have tears as I write now, but I know she is in a much better place.

She will be missed so much on here. I will look for her posts, but there won't be any from her now.

It makes my eyes tear up as I write this now, so I guess I am done.

Dear Phyllis I am going to miss reading your posts and seeing your beautiful picture with the adorable little dog. Just rest now with the Lord and know the pain is over my friend.
I love you! Teri


Dear Mark,
I cannot imagine how you must feel today, but know you are in my prayers and there are so many praying for you and Katy. May the mighty hand of God comfort you and give you the peace that passes all understanding knowing she is with God and not in pain. Please take care of yourself. And Katy know that you are in my prayers as well.

love, Teri



Author Notes I had to write from my heart as tears were streaming from my eyes. I know that God sees all and hears all and He will comfort us all. May God bless you all my friends!


Chapter 8
Goodbye, Dear Phyllis

By robyn corum

~**~

"A day without laughter is a day wasted."

Charlie Chaplin,
British comic actor and film maker




Dear Phyllis,

It means so much that you reached out to me last fall, fanning me. I still felt like a newbie after only one year.

We had much in common, especially our love and appreciation for the FanStory writers forum. It stings so badly when we lose someone in our tight-knit community.

We hate to see you go, especially so suddenly.

Thank you for sharing yourself and your gift of humor. I loved each and every Limerick, and the FanStory classic, Bowl of Stew.

You, dear one, are a classic.

I miss you already.

Your fan friend,
Sally Law xoxo

Author Notes Vanessa Cardui Butterfly
https://pixabay.com/photos/vanessa-cardui-butterfly-edelfalter-1568926/@pixabay.com


Chapter 9
In Memory

By robyn corum

Phyllis, you never failed me once. You were always there with a helping hand to better my writing. I will miss that, but I will also be grateful that you took your time to do that.

You were a character, and your sense of humour was a distinct trademark. You had your strong opinions, and so did I. But that's how it should be, and we stayed firm friends.

Your talent stretched wide and regaled us with great books and wonderful poems. Up to the very last, you even gifted us with another visit from the Penguins.

I know you struggled, and for many years, but I'm convinced that you've now found release. Rest in peace dear Phyllis. I will miss you. Ulla xxx


Chapter 11
Saying Goodbye to Phyllis

By robyn corum

Learning of the loss of Phyllis was difficult.  I thought of her as a friend and teacher.  We have lost too many friends on this site.  She was always eager to help me with my writing and never held back her critisims.  Yet, her helpful suggestions were always appreciated.  I knew of her health problems but took for granted that she would be with us forever.  As a friend, she was supportive and encouraging when I was feeling down.  She was loved dearly and will be missed by so many.

I find solace knowing she is in a place where she can move about easily, and the pain she experienced here no longer exists.

Take care sweet Phyllis, you will be missed.

Author Notes Many of you already know I need all the help I can get to edit my posts. I sincerely appreciate all the assistance you can give me.


Chapter 13
tender poems and prose

By robyn corum

Like that friendly neighbor
she'd pop in sometimes,
with a funny photo,
observations put to rhyme.

I shared her joy of Google Earth ~
The world, one click away.
Her little critters came to life
in the most delightful way.

Yet once again we gather
in sympathetic pose,
with prayers for her family
in tender poems and prose.

Author Notes My sympathy to her family and many Fanstory friends. Thanks to booklotto for the artwork.


Chapter 14
Phyllis's Green Pastures

By robyn corum

What can I say about a person I never met personally but felt like I knew so well?  Phyllis was an inspiration to me, and I marveled at the range of her talent.

I read several of her novels and enjoyed the depth and imagination she brought to them.   In Repentance she made me think about the extent of an individual’s ability to change and have a positive influence on the lives of others. 

Her humorous side came out with her popular “Bowl of Stew” series with Thomas Bowling.  It was such fun to see the interplay between the two “advice columnists.”  Her Penguin poems always delighted and brightened our holidays.

I didn’t realize how much poetry Phyllis had to her credit until she posted some she had written before I became a Fan.  Some were humorous, and all showed her insight into human nature.  

I knew that our versatile Phyllis had been suffering from severe health problems and had been unable to go outside as she would have liked to.  It was fortunate for her—and us—that she found FanStory and could put her creative energies into writing.  She also had her wonderful husband, Mark, always a pillar for her in her years of illness. 

Thanks to Phyllis’s daughter Katy for her wonderful tribute and the picture of her mother smiling, enjoying the outdoors.  That’s just the way I want to remember her. 
 

 

Author Notes Thanks to Anne of FanArtReview for the lovely "Going through the Gate."


Chapter 15
Ethereal

By robyn corum

Oh, God I can't write this. Even with your help. So we'll stick to facts, and a minimum of them.

I am a recent arrival to FS, and it was Phyllis at the beginning of autumn 2019 who, despite her problems, took the time and energy to explain to me how to navigate my way through the reviewing code of the site, and how to set about submitting. I carefully kept her precious advice, and read it frequently.

Then recently she posted a non-fictional text on how to attack limericks. She loved them. I have never dared touch them, and we started to "talk" about this. I said she had inspired me, and I would try. Where did she find the time and above all the energy to look after us all? Now in tribute to her loving care, I will approach limericks, but not here and not yet. In the spring, when I get over this.

Phyllis was a generous queen amongst women.


Chapter 16
Phyllis Stewart

By robyn corum

I first started reading Phyllis's work as she was writing a story about a young woman in 19th century England. It was everything I never read: a love story, a British period piece, and one I felt might have been aimed at teen girls. For some reason I was hooked on it and kept reading. She took the main character from her station as a servant to the heir of the estate for whom she worked. The surprises, the intrigue, and the research into what it was like in that era was compelling. This gave me insight into how a great author gets readers to follow a plot.

She was helpful to me as I submitted posts. She gave sound advice and unabashed comments.

She was an all-around entertaining person who knew how to pen romance, suspense, and humor. Our world was made better by her.

 


Chapter 18
Tears for Friends

By robyn corum



“Tears are a language our God understands…”
This thought can sustain me in troubling days.
He gathers my tears in the palms of His hands;
His vision is clear when mine’s just a haze.
 
I’m needy and weak and can’t see too far.
I stumble and fall and can’t find my way.
But He is my comfort when life goes ajar;
God loves me and never does His love halfway.
 
I lose folks I love and my heart breaks in two.
The daylight turns dark and the moon isn’t clear.
I turn to my Lord, whose peace I pursue…
and cling to Him tightly till joy reappears.
 
I hold these friends close, their memories precious:
they live in my heart – still dance in my mind.
It seems a small thing, but eases my stresses,
and here in my world, they continue to
shine


 

Author Notes Author's Notes:
This poem was inspired by two lines - one from Teri ('Tears are a language God understands') and one from WalkerMan ("Anyone still remembered is not truly gone").

"You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?" Psalms 56:8
--> We are told God actually collects our tears and puts them in a bottle and write them in some form of a book - He keeps them/makes a record of them! I'm using poetic license in this piece to say He catches them in the palms of His hands. The point, I think, is the same. He cares and our tears MATTER.

Thanks to all for reading.


Chapter 20
In Tribute To Phyllis Stewart

By robyn corum


Her "Bowl of Stew" with Thomas was a hoot,
and she could make reviewing almost moot
when everything she wrote lacked no finesse.
A teacher to the end, you did not guess
when Phyllis came around to score your work!
You knew that she was right. She'd never shirk
a task that she could do to help you learn,
no matter what that member let her earn
in funny money. Phyllis gave her all
to FanStory -- she must be walking tall.
~*~

Author Notes If you were her friend, she would do almost anything for you. RIP, Phyllis.


Chapter 22
farewell blossom child

By robyn corum

So you have passed into the next room at last. You once told me that you were "eager for death"

Now I know why. Your life must have been an unceasing struggle, but now the battle is over.

Calm water , blue skies, sunny days and a peaceful journey to a safe haven.

Farewell Blossom Child. May God bless and keep you safe until forever.

May your loved ones take comfort in these words knowing they come from a heart that is filled with sorrow at this loss.
She was also a friend, a counselor, a fund of wisdom and knowledge and an example to all who knew her.
She will be sadly missed.
Goodbye my sweet friend, may Heaven be everything you expect and richly deserve.

Meet me at the gates when I get there darlin'. We'll have coffee and home made cake and a very long chat. Yours truly Cass Carlton


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