Phyllis Jean Conklin

Phyllis Jean Conklin, 96, of Lawrence passed away comfortably on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, surrounded by family at home.

Phyllis was born Nov. 1, 1926, in Kankakee, Ill., the daughter of Harry and Nellie (Beauvais) Wright, both of whom precede her in passing. Also preceding her in passing are her late husband, Melvin James ‘M.J.’ Conklin, on Sept. 11, 2003; son, Jim Conklin; grandson, Mark Moore; great-granddaughter, Emersyn Conklin; son-in-law, Steve Martin; sister, Dora Hathaway; and two brothers, Norman Wright and Donald Wright.

Phyllis would often help in her husband’s service station, and also helped with the Hartford Motor Speedway, which they owned and operated over 10 years with friends. Phyllis and M.J. were involved with the Van Buren County Youth Fair for more than 30 years. She was formerly employed at the Abstract Office in Paw Paw and the Cooperative Extension Service of Van Buren County.

Phyllis is survived by two children: Janice Martin of Lawrence and Jerry (Marie) Conklin of Palm Bay, Fla.; daughter-in-law, Glenda Conklin of Taylor, Mich.; nine grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.

The family will welcome friends from 10 to 11 a.m., on Monday, Nov. 7, at the Lawrence United Methodist Church, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to the church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.