Elizabeth Ann (Lutes) Phelps

Elizabeth Ann Phelps, age 87 of Osceola, passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021, at Story Brook Assisted Living Center in Granger. Elizabeth was born July 21, 1934, in South Bend, Indiana.  She was a graduate of Mishawaka High School and  a lifelong resident of our area.  On November 20, 1965, she married Robert L. Phelps.  He preceded her in death on September 28, 2000.

Surviving are her stepchildren Vicky (Arch) Grafton of Osceola and James W. (Judy) Phelps of Mishawaka, and her grandchildren; Jason Grafton, Jessica Russell, Robert Lee Phelps III, Amber Phelps, Audrey Searfoss and Guy Searfoss.  Surviving as well are 18 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her mother Mabel Lutes, her stepdaughter Jean Searfoss, stepson Robert Phelps Jr. and a granddaughter Laura “Sissy” Watson.

Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the 11:30 am funeral service on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.

Liz was employed with W.F. Lilly and later with Adams Westlake as a secretary for many years.  In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling and was an avid fan of IU Basketball and the Chicago Cubs.  Later, she and her friend became season ticket holders of Notre Dame Men’s basketball and Liz loved learning about the players and cheering them on as they played.  She also loved animals and was extremely fond of her little dog “Poochie.”

Her love for the Lord was shown through her longtime membership at Albright United Methodist Church where she attended faithfully for many years. Her serious, yet fun loving nature will be remembered by those who knew her well.

In her memory, donations may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice or REAL Services of Michiana.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of her life, or leave a message of comfort for Liz’s family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.