Phyllis I (Kennedy) Whiteman

Phyllis I. (Kennedy) Whiteman, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, in Melbourne, Florida. Born on October 28, 1925, in Warwick, Rhode Island, to John H. Kennedy and Lilly (Meason) Kennedy, Phyllis's life was a testament to the devotion she had for her family, her unwavering spirit, and her dedication to the service of others.

A lifelong homemaker, Phyllis poured her heart into creating a loving home for her family. She was united in matrimony to her dear late husband, Robert C. Whiteman, on January 9, 1946, in Providence, Rhode Island, sharing a life filled with love and mutual respect until his passing on February 19, 2019. Together, they nurtured a family of integrity, warmth, and kindness, including their children Barbara Whiteman, Byron Whiteman and his wife Rebecca, and their late son Richard Whiteman. Phyllis delighted in the joy her granddaughter Stephanie Whiteman brought to her life.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, her son Richard, her sisters Doris Kershew, Lilly Keyes, and June Tryon, and her brother John Kennedy. Each of these departures was a chapter closed in the rich story of her life, yet Phyllis carried on with grace and fortitude, leaving an inspiring legacy of resilience.

Beyond her family, Phyllis was deeply involved in several organizations that reflected her varied interests and commitment to heritage and community. She took great pleasure in cross-stitching, creating intricate and beautiful works of art that were treasured by all who received them. She was a campfire leader and on the board.  Her passion for genealogy led her to become a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Schuyler Colfax Chapter, where she actively engaged in historical preservation and education.

Phyllis also dedicated time to the Lakeville Eastern Star and the Avalon Grotto Auxiliary, organizations through which she fostered lifelong friendships and contributed to philanthropic initiatives. As a Daughter of the Niles #153, she further exemplified her caring nature and commitment to altruistic pursuits.

A time to visit with the family will take place on Monday, December 8th, 2025, from 12-1 p.m. A service will follow starting at 1 p.m. All being held at Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., Mishawaka, IN 46545. Procession to St Joseph Valley Memorial Park will immediately follow.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.