Phyllis I. Salsman

Phyllis Irene Salsman, loving daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, 86, of Galesburg, died peacefully at 12:52 a.m. Sunday, April 21, 2024 in Seminary Manor.

Phyllis was born February 22, 1938 in Waverly, KY, the daughter of Charles Everett and Anna M. Russelburg. She married Eric A. Salsman on July 18, 1955. They had three boys: Kevin L. (Maria), A.J. (Karen), and Stephen S., all of Galesburg. Phyllis is also survived by seven grandchildren: Scott (Carolyn) Lewis, Bradley E. Salsman, Sarah J. Salsman, Regina M. (Joseph) Brunkow, Beau W. Salsman, Elise C. Salsman, and Payton G. Salsman, and three great grandchildren.

Along with her parents, Phyllis was predeceased by her husband; brothers: Charles (Lib), Joe (Connie), Rommie (Helena), and Robert Russelburg; and sisters: Katherine (Walt) Christian, Retha (John) Vance, Eva (Sam) Cunefare, and Martha (John) Christian.

Phyllis was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. She worked at Club 19 for many years before becoming a housewife and mother. When her children were grown, she went to work in the food and custodial departments at Knox College. Phyllis spent countless nights at the ballpark, and she loved to spend time with her family. She enjoyed watching the Cubs, working jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, and cherished her time visiting with her best friend of 67 years, Colleen Kisler.

Honoring her request, there will be no funeral services, and cremation will be accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Costa Catholic Academy, American Legion Post 285 Baseball, or the Parkinson’s Foundation. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.