Phyllis M. Humphreys

Phyllis McCracken Humphreys, 95, of Derry, PA, passed away at home on Monday, August 31, 2020.  She was born on November 26, 1924, at the Latrobe Hospital to Cecil and Lemont McCracken.  She was proceeded in death by her parents, her sister Diane, and three brothers, Lemont, Joe, and David, her grandson James McCracken Humphreys, and her husband of 72 1/2 years, James W. Humphreys.  She is survived by her son Richard Humphreys, his wife Margaret, step granddaughter Susan Martin, her granddaughter Dr. Kris Humphreys and her husband Dr. Shao Jiang and two great grandchildren Andrew Jiang and Elizabeth Jiang, and her beloved Schnauzers Hans and Fritz.
Phyllis started her career in education in Atlantic No. 40 one-room school house in 1944 during World War II and continued teaching at different grade levels including graduate school.  Phyllis ended her career in administration serving as Reading and Public Relations Coordinator.  After her retirement in 1982 from the Derry Area School District, she taught G.E.D. classes at Eastern Westmoreland Vo-Tech and several courses for Penn State's off-campus programs.  Phyllis also assisted with the Derry Area High School musicals and mentored high school and college students.  Even years after retirement, Phyllis was always available to help former students, friends, and organizations in anyway she could.
Phyllis was an active member of the Derry Presbyterian Church and served on several boards (Elder, Trustee, and Deacon), sang in the choir, and taught Sunday school at many levels.  Both Phyllis and her husband Jim chaperoned several church mission tours.
She also served as a board member of the Chestnut Ridge Chapter of the American Red Cross, Westmoreland County Mental Health, and the Caldwell Memorial Library.  She was a charter member of the Derry Historical Society.
The family extends their heart felt thanks to Bethlen Home Services, Dr. Kevin Grosso, Dr. Randall Orr, supportive neighbors Jim & Pat Smith and George & Mary Kalafus, many friends, and mostly Susan Baltich (friend and caregiver) who made it possible for her to stay in her home.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be a celebration of life at a later date. Interment will be private at Coles Cemetery.
No flowers please.  Donations may be given to the Derry Presbyterian Church or the Caldwell Memorial Library. 
Arrangements are being handled by the McCabe Funeral Home, 300 W. Third Avenue, Derry.
Online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomespa.