Phyllis Marie Reese-Murphy was born to parents Josephine and Troy Reese on January 4, 1957 . She received her education at the East Saint Louis Senior High School. After graduating, she embarked on her career with St. Louis District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Phyllis was compassionate, resilient, patient and kind. Her top priority was always to make sure her sons were okay. Phyllis was, not only a mother to her own children, but an extended mother to others. She was the type of person who you could depend on for love and support. She pushed many to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. She fought for those around her, even when they didn't have it in them to fight for themselves. With her, no battle was too much. She carried everything with grace and was able to set an example of strength for those who were around her.

Phyllis enjoyed many things. One of top enjoyable moments for her was going to Church. Phyllis accepted Christ in her life. For years, she was an active member of the House of Prayer Assembly in Centreville, IL under the leadership of Bishop David E. Tabb, Jr. When she was not at Church, she was watching Western movies, catching up on replays of the Andy Griffith show, and going to Walmart.

Phyllis ' parents, Josephine and Troy Reese, and brother Floyd Reese, preceded her in death.

Phyllis went from life to death on June 13, 2023 . She leaves to cherish her memory: three loving sons, Deleone Murphy, Michael Murphy, Christopher Murphy; her brother, Daryl Reese; special friend, Pete; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and close friends.