Obituary of Phyllis Bridenstine

Coffeyville - Phyllis Lou Bridenstine, 84, of Caney, passed away Tuesday, September 3, 2013, at Wilson Medical Center in Neodesha. Phyllis was born April 5, 1929, to Don E. and Phyllis (Gillis) Wells in Parsons, KS. She graduated from Erie High School in 1946. She went to Pittsburg State University, met her husband, Orville J. Bridenstine, they graduated together in 1950. They were married on January 29, 1950, and together raised 3 sons. Her life and joys were her uncompromising love for her family. She loved all children, taught first grade in Caney, second grade in Havana, and was a substitute teacher in six schools in Wayzata, Minnesota. In about 1966 she established the first grade school library at Lincoln Memorial Grade School, under Title III, and was the librarian the following year. She loved her church and spent many years teaching the children's Sunday school classes, Vacation Bible School and CYF. Phyllis also enjoyed working with the Cub Scouts, and was Den Mother for each of her sons. She was an avid reader and from 1985-1987 she wrote a book as a tribute to her family. It contained 10 mini-biographies going back to her great-grandparents on both sides of her family. She and her husband, Bud had a wonderful marriage for over 64 years. Phyllis is survived by her husband, Bud of the home; two sons, Doug Bridenstine of Wichita, and Bland Bridenstine of Catoosa, OK; granddaughters, Melanie Boaz and husband Todd of Owasso, OK, and Michelle Golden and husband Ben of Parker, CO; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, and one son, Don Bridenstine on March 25, 2013. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 7, 2013 at the Sunnyside Cemetery in Caney with Rev. Mike Morris of the First Assembly of God officiating. The family suggests memorials to the Assembly of God Thrift Store (ACTS); contributions may be left with the funeral home or mailed c/o David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.