Phyllis E. Surowiec, 90, of Elkhart, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Riverside Village in Elkhart. She was born on December 31, 1934, in Ulm, Arkansas to the late Ward and Sybil (Ferrell) Duncan.

Phyllis is also preceded in death by her loving husband of 61 years, Robert J. "Bob" Surowiec; son, Michael Surowiec, and brothers, Willard, James, and Larry Duncan. She is survived by her children, Rodney A. "Rod" (Kathy Kniola) Surowiec of LaPorte, IN, Debra "Debbie" (James) Pratt of Elkhart, and Kathy (Randy) Hoover of Sebring, FL; 12 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; and 12 great great grandchildren.

In accordance with Phyllis' wishes, cremation was chosen. Services taking place at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart are pending at this time and will be posted on the website at a later date. Memorial donations may be given to Illinois School for the Deaf, 125 Webster Ave. Jacksonville, IL 62650.

Phyllis was a kind and loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She was deaf and attended the Illinois School for the Deaf where she met many friends. Phyllis would later go on to marry Robert Surowiec in Herrin, IL on July 12, 1952. She and her husband did just about everything together. With their family, they enjoyed playing board games and card games. In Phyllis' earlier years, she also enjoyed bowling and was a part of several bowling leagues. Phyllis enjoyed spending time with her friends in the deaf community.

Phyllis was a very crafty person who enjoyed crocheting and making little ornaments and pins out of beads for different holidays. She sold some of her creations at the Pierre Moran Mall. Phyllis was an active member of the Michiana Deaf Senior Citizens group until her illness. Phyllis was loved by so many and lived a long, beautiful life that allowed her to see and spend time with her many great and great great grandchildren. She will be dearly missed.

Illinois School for the Deaf
125 Webster Ave., Jacksonville IL 62650
Tel: 1-217-479-4200
Email: DHS.ISDinfo@illinois.gov
Web: https://www.isd.illinois.gov/