In Memory of Phyllis Ann Crang (Hughes)

With sadness, the family announces the passing of Phyllis Ann Crang—a beloved spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend—who left us on March 9, 2025. Phyllis was born on July 7, 1934 in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, to Ida (Fife) and Francis Hughes, and grew up in Sudbury, Ontario during the Great Depression. She lost her father at the age of seven and was raised by Ida, a dedicated schoolteacher. Those early years helped develop her resilience, values, and spirited approach to life. An active member of the Sudbury YMCA throughout her childhood, Phyllis developed a lifelong passion for sports and community that would define much of her journey.

Phyllis is survived by her two daughters, Carolyn (Rob Chown) and Cathy (Ted Semadeni), and her five cherished grandchildren: Gordie, Allie, and Tom Chown, and Alan and Kate Crang-Semadeni.

Phyllis attended Sudbury Secondary School before pursuing her calling at Marymount School of Nursing, graduating in 1954. Her adventurous spirit led her to work as an operating room nurse in Cleveland and New York City for four years before she returned to Sudbury. There, she continued her nursing career until she met Don Crang—affectionately known as “Dumbo”—who swept her off her feet. The two married in 1963 and shared 57 years together until Don’s passing in August 2020.

Phyllis lived life to the fullest. She spent countless hours at the YMCA and Camp Falcona, where she served as a lifeguard and camp counsellor. As a teenager, she discovered golf—a passion that endured for over 75 years. As a member of the Idylwylde Golf and Country Club, Phyllis dominated the Northern Ontario golf scene, winning the Northern Ontario Ladies Golf Championship and the Idylwylde Ladies Club Championship across multiple decades, along with countless other trophies. She enjoyed her final game with Carolyn and Cathy on October 30, 2023, at age 89, where she drove every shot right down the middle of each fairway and all putts were lined up with precision. During the “off-season”, Phyllis enjoyed curling at the Idylwylde. Phyllis also had a mind for community service, and dedicated many years to the IODE, where she and her friends helped those who were less fortunate.

Alongside Don, she travelled the world, golfing and exploring destinations—many off the beaten path where few tourists ventured at the time. They also enjoyed spending time golfing in Florida in the winters, where they met friends, hosted family, and worked on their games.

Phyllis was an inspiring role model for her daughters, encouraging them to embrace a wide range of sports and pursuits while allowing them the freedom to follow their own paths. She was a constant presence in the gym, at the pool, on the ski hill, and at the hockey rink, cheering on her children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavours.

In 1969, Phyllis and Don built a family camp on Lake Manitou, which became a gathering place where the family continues to make memories. Her grandchildren will forever treasure “Bammie’s” captivating stories of her Sudbury upbringing, her global adventures, and her legendary pumpkin muffins.

In her final years, Phyllis faced dementia with courage. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the City of Lakes Family Health Team for their support as Phyllis’ needs grew. We also thank the compassionate staff of St. Joseph’s Villa, where both Don and Phyllis spent their last years. Their kindness, dedication, and unwavering care provided comfort and reassurance that Phyllis and Don were always in good hands.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Phyllis’ memory to the YMCA Northeastern Ontario or to St. Joseph’s Villa—two places close to her heart.

Phyllis’ legacy of strength, love, and adventure will live on in her family and all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday April 6, 2025 from 3:00-6:00 PM (with words of remembrance at 4:00 PM) at the Idylwylde Golf and Country Club. All are welcome.

Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com