Obituary of Richard Gaylen Phifer

Richard Gaylen Phifer, 86, of Coffeyville, formerly of Osawatomie, KS passed away Friday, June 30, 2017. He was born on July 13, 1930, in California, to Richard and May (Johnson) Phifer. Gaylen moved with his family to the Paola, KS area where he graduated from Paola High School. When he was young he developed a love of art, and worked as a cartoonist and artist for Walt Disney for a period of time. He married Nancy Whited. Following their marriage they lived in Osawatomie where the raised their son and Gaylen was employed in the grocery business for many years. They moved to Coffeyville in the fall of 2010. His wife preceded him in death on December 3, 2010. Gaylen was an avid reader especially reading about cars and planes, he loved drawing cartoons sharing them with his family and friends. Survivors include his daughter-in-law, Connie Phifer of rural Liberty; one granddaughter, Desirae Blythe and husband Chip of Uniontown, KS; two grandchildren, Megan Blythe and Mark Blythe both of Uniontown; two sisters, Pat Slyter, and Bonita Morris; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and one son, Phillip Phifer in 2015. Following Gaylen's wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.