Phyllis Gray McElhaney
Phyllis “Petey” Gray McElhaney passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023, at the age of 89, from natural causes in Chandler Hall Hospice in Newtown.
She was born at home in Burgettstown August 18, 1933, a daughter to the late Phil S. and Carolyn Richey Gray. She was a true auburn haired Leo!
She leaves behind her adoring husband of 70 years, George M. McElhaney; and four children, Amy G. McElhaney of Yardley, Georgeann C. McElhaney of Lakewood, Colo., Philip J. McElhaney (Susan Penner) of Kamuela, Hawaii and Tomas M. McElhaney (Wendy Leeds) of Ripton, Vt. She also leaves behind five grandchildren, whom she adored and spoiled, Sarah R. Micklas (Joseph), Malachi and Nathaniel Hemmert, Eryn McElhaney-Smith (Alek), Yanmei K. McElhaney, George J. Cote, and two grandchildren in spirit, Dylan C. Smith and Hannah R. Osbome; along with four great-grandchildren. She was a fun and loving aunt to several nieces and a nephew.
She was preceded in death by her youngest daughter, Lesa J. McElhaney of Danielson, Conn.
Upon marrying George in 1952, her family life became rather nomadic moving from place to place as job opportunities arose for him. She carried on unflinchingly, her chicks in tow, moving as far away as California and Venezuela, S.A., back to Pennsylvania, then to Monroe, N.Y., Danielson, and finally back to Pennsylvania with eventual retirement to West Fenwick, Del.
During retirement they spent 10 years RVing through much of the USA to carry on their nomadic lifestyle. The six years spent in Venezuela led to creating many friendships throughout the USA, which provided lots of opportunity for RV destinations. In 2018 they move to Langhorne to be closer to family.
Phyllis had a long and adventurous life for which she was grateful, but was the most happy when her chicks returned to the roost with their families in tow.
Interment will be private and held at a later date. Donations, in Phyllis’ memory, can be made to the National MS Society or a charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements under the care of the Fitz Gerald-Sommer Funeral Home, 17 S. Delaware Avenue, Yardley, PA 19067.
Condolences for the family can be left at www.fitzgeraldsommerfuneralhome.com.