Phyllis Watkins Creech

Phyllis Watkins Creech, a beloved matriarch and faithful servant of the Lord, went to be with Jesus on February 25, 2026, at the age of 92, in Dayton, Ohio. Born on April 6, 1933, in Bath County, Kentucky, Phyllis lived a life marked by unwavering devotion to her family and an enduring commitment to her faith.

For 24 years, Phyllis dedicated herself to the Miami Valley Hospital, where she worked in Patient Financial Services. Her career was not merely a profession; it was an extension of her caring nature, as she interacted with countless individuals, offering her assistance with kindness and grace. Phyllis was not just a steadfast employee but a touchstone of warmth to those she encountered.

Family was the center of her world, and she always extended unconditional love to others. Phyllis poured her heart into being a loving mother to her children, Roger Watkins and his wife, Liz, and Karen Watkins-Young. Her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was equally cherished, as she embraced her grandchildren, Jennifer Watkins, Kyla Young, Connor Young, Chelsea Alexander, and Andy Turner; and her great-grandchildren, Bella, Brayden, Taylor, Mason, Margo, Raylan, and Mackenzie, with a boundless affection that will forever resonate in their hearts; and her siblings, Don (Barb) Earley and Beverly Blevins; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was the embodiment of kindness and a devoted caregiver, blessed with talents that extended beyond her nurturing spirit. She shared her love of music throughout her life, beginning in church with her sisters, Joyce, Donna, and herself, as they harmoniously formed the Earley Trio, ministering to congregations across Kentucky and Southern Ohio. Her vocal contributions continued with various groups and quartets, allowing her to spread joy through song. Her culinary skills reflected her inherent desire to bring comfort and nurture those around her, enriching their lives with her delectable creations. Phyllis was recognized at the 70th anniversary service as one of the original members of the Moraine City First Church of God. 

The tapestry of her existence was woven with countless threads of love and devotion, highlighted by her proudest accomplishment – a lifelong dedication to serving the Lord and sharing her faith with her family. Phyllis’s ultimate aspiration was to unite with God in Heaven while guiding as many souls as she could along that path.

She is joined in Heaven with her parents, George and Nellie Mae (Donathan) Earley, her husbands—Jesse Kermit Watkins, whom she married on April 2, 1953, and Hershel Creech, whom she married on September 22, 2009—and dear siblings, Joyce Risner, Donna Strong, Gene Earley, William Earley, Ike Earley, and Robin Earley; as well as her son-in-law, Jim Young, and her beloved grandson, Chris Turner.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at the Moraine City First Church of God, located at 5867 North Springboro Pike, Dayton, Ohio. The visitation will be on March 5, 2026, at 11:00AM, followed by the funeral service at 1:00PM. Phyllis will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Phyllis.

As we celebrate the life of Phyllis Watkins Creech, we honor her legacy of love, compassion, and faith, which will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.