ELKHART -- Phyllis Jean Harter, 83, of Elkhart, died at 9:11 p.m. Sunday (Sept. 7, 2008) in Elkhart General Hospital.

She was born May 18, 1925, in Goshen to Albert and Mabel (Smith) Martin. On Oct. 16, 1945, she married Ralph Kenneth Harter in Wakarusa. He died Feb. 13, 2006.

Mrs. Harter is survived by one daughter, Janice (Jeff) Vander Reyden of Goshen; two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Wayne Martin and Doyle (Jeannine) Martin, both of Elkhart; and three sisters, Donna J. Timpe, Joan (Wayne) Gongwer and Marijane (Paul) Zipser, all of Elkhart.

She was preceded in death by one daughter, Lois Jean Graham; one granddaughter, Deborah E. Gaines; and one brother, Dale Martin.

Mrs. Harter worked at Elkhart Packing, which later became Plumrose, for more than 30 years as the bookkeeper. She was also a bookkeeper at her husband's business, Ralph's Welding & Repair. She was a member of Elkhart Valley Church of the Brethren and Elkhart County Campers.

Mrs. Harter was a Concord High School graduate and was known for the sweet pickles and pickle relish she made each year. She loved to crochet and made many afghans for her family and friends.

Mrs. Harter enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, and one hour prior to Thursday's 11 a.m. funeral service at Elkhart Valley Church of the Brethren, 24955 C.R. 24, Elkhart. Pastor Beth Sollenberger-Morphew will officiate. Burial will follow in Sugar Grove Cemetery, Goshen.

Memorials may be given to the church trust fund. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.