Phyllis Jean Jones' Obituary
Phyllis J. Jones, age 92, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, in Standale, MI. She was born on November 13, 1933, to Elmer F. and Jessie (Megarah) Adgate in Ionia, MI, the last of eight children. She grew up on a farm in Collins, MI. Phyllis first attended school at Riker Schoolhouse and later graduated from Portland High School. After high school, she moved to Lansing where she worked and attended some courses at Michigan State University.
A woman of great compassion, Phyllis dedicated much of her life to the care of others. While primarily a mother and home-maker, she also worked as a nurse aide at Clark Home for many years and demonstrated her tenacity by attending Grand Rapids Community College later in life to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse. Her nurturing spirit extended into her community as a Cub Scout Den Mother, frequent volunteer, a grateful member of al-anon and missionary.
Phyllis was a true traveling enthusiast, famously touring the country in her beloved van, "Hermie." Whether she was wintering in Yuma, Arizona, or enjoying the lakeside beauty of Grand Haven and Spring Lake, she found joy in the world around her. She had a deep appreciation for the quiet beauty of birds and the intricate artistry of stained glass, a craft she used to beautify her home. An avid reader and life-long learner, she was an active member of Lake Harbor United Methodist Church, participating in numerous Bible studies and book clubs.
From the quiet of a kayak to the energy of a sporting event or a classical concert, Phyllis embraced life’s variety. Above all, she loved a good party and cherished any time spent gathered with her family and her many friends.
She is survived by her children: Susan Jackson, Bradley (Thiennga Ngo) Jones, Kenneth Jones; grandchildren: Samantha (Alex) Seto, Sydney (Amanda Kesson) Jackson, Bonnie Jones, and Trent Jones; sisters-in-law Sally Adgate, and Joanne Adgate. She is preceded in death by her parents: Elmer and Jessie Adgate; siblings Leland Adgate, Eleanor (Kenneth) Day, Wayne (Mary Lou) Adgate, Lois Adgate, Neal Adgate, Margaret (Norris Signs, Harold “Bud”) Whipple, and Lawrence Adgate.
MEMORIAL SERVICE: Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Lake Harbor United Methodist Church, 4861 Henry St., Muskegon, MI 49441. Arrangements by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 W. Savidge St. Spring Lake, MI. 49456. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and share memories at https://sytsemafh.com
MEMORIAL LUNCHEON AND GOLF OUTING: A luncheon and golf outing are being planned for Friday, June 12, 2026, at Willow Wood Golf Club in Portland, MI. Details have not been finalized as of yet. Please contact jones.ngo+golf@gmail.com if interested or for more information.
What’s your fondest memory of Phyllis?
What’s a lesson you learned from Phyllis?
Share a story where Phyllis' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Phyllis you’ll never forget.
How did Phyllis make you smile?