Phyllis Arlene Garbison

Phyllis A. Garbison (Elson), 77, of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, passed away peacefully on Saturday October 10th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Centerville, Iowa, Phyllis was a woman of strength, determination, and a whole lot of stubbornness. She lived life on her own terms and anyone who knew her knew that once she made up her mind about something there wasn't much that could change it. That same fighting spirit stayed with her till the very end. She fought hard to remain her with the people she loved, showing the same strength and determination that had carried her throughout her life.

Phyllis lived a life that was anything but ordinary. Over the years, she wore many hats each one telling a different story. She worked as a nurse's aid, caring for those who needed her. She owned a video store, bringing people together. She even worked as a professional clown, making children smile and laugh. And for 20 years she proudly served the city of Chicago as a Chicago Police Officer, a career that reflected her courage, toughness, and willingness to stand up for others.

But beyond all the jobs she held and the adventures she experienced, Phyllis's greatest love was her family. She loved them fiercely and in her own special way. Her home was a place filled with love, laughter, and the pets she adored. She enjoyed the simple things in life: a cold Pepsi, a good jigsaw puzzle, a crossword that challenged her min and being surrounded by those she loved.

Phyllis also had a special love for hot air balloons. She loved their beautiful colors, the quiet rise and the peaceful way they floated across the sky. There was something about them that brought her joy and they will forever be a sweet reminder of her.

Phyllis is survived by her husband, Larry Garbison; her sister Janice Hill; her brother Rodney Brunk; her daughter Michele Acosta; her sons, Michael Acosta, Anthony Acosta, and Marc Acosta; and her grandchildren, Ariana Acosta, Emily Acosta and Rylee Gorzynski. Each of them carries her legacy of love, resilience, and kindness.

Phyllis was strong willed, determined and not one to give up easily. Even in her final days, she fought with everything she had. And while those who loved her would have given anything for more time, there is comfort in knowing that her fight is over, her pain is gone, and she can finally rest.

She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, and stories that will be told for years to come and a family who will carry her love with them always.

Whenever a hot air balloon drifts across the sky, may it bring a smile, a sweet memory and a reminder of Phyllis, a woman who fought hard, loved deeply, left her own unforgettable mark on this world and she is now free.

Online guest book can be signed at www.currywelborn.com

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Curry-Welborn Funeral Home.