Phyllis Jean Thilleman was born on January 22, 1952, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Charles and Viola Vogelman. Known by all as “Gaga,” Phyllis embraced the name with pride and affection—whether it came from her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, or even friends who lovingly adopted it. She passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, at the age of 73 in Round Rock, Texas.

On June 3, 1972, Phyllis married the love of her life, Dave Allen Thilleman. Their marriage of over 50 years was rooted in deep love, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment. Together they built a life filled with laughter, devotion, and cherished memories.

Through their marriage, they built a loving family that included their daughter, Tammy (Carlos) Ramirez, and their sons, David (Cassidi) Thilleman—whom she now joins in rest—and Tim (Leslie) Thilleman.

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Tim (Jessica) Thilleman, Ashley (Justin) Casey, Amy (David) Johnson, Taryn (Joseph) Thilleman, Andi Patronella, Austin Johnson, and Renn Thilleman. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Landon Casey, Addie Thilleman, Grayson Thilleman, Maximus Trevino-Jaramillo, Emery Patronella, Maverick Trevino-Jaramillo, Liam Dresen, and Phoenix Trevino-Jaramillo.

She is survived by her sister Nancy (Ken) Steinmetz. Also remembered with love are her sister Joann (Bruce) Shawhan and in-laws Harold “Bob” Thilleman, Karen (Arthur) Johnson, and Michael Thilleman.

She had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, whether through a heartfelt conversation, a family gathering, or a simple hello in passing. Her love for her family ran deep, expressed not just in words but in her constant presence and unwavering support.

One of her greatest joys was attending school functions—big or small—for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether it was a recital, graduation, or classroom celebration, she was there with pride in her heart and a smile that lit up the room.

Her fierce loyalty, her laughter, and the way she showed up for those she loved are the truest reflections of who she was—and we are all better for having been loved by her.

Phyllis taught us all something about living—about loving fiercely, about standing strong, and about cherishing the people around you. Her life wasn’t about grand gestures; it was about the everyday moments—the conversations, the laughter, the unwavering loyalty. She built a legacy of love, and today, we celebrate that.

If you knew Phyllis, you knew her spirit was impossible to ignore. She had opinions, and she wasn’t afraid to share them. She was feisty, no doubt about it. She had a fire in her heart, a spark in her soul, and a way of telling it like it was—no sugar-coating, no pretending—just honest, fierce, and full of life. But that honesty was a gift—you always knew where you stood with her, and you always knew she cared enough to be real. Her strength, her wit, and her fire are parts of her that we loved, and we will carry with us forever.

As we bid farewell to Phyllis, we celebrate a life lived with passion and a heart full of love. While we will miss her deeply, we take solace in the knowledge that her legacy lives on in the stories we share, the laughter that echoes in our memories, and the love she bestowed upon us all.

Our love for you, Phyllis, will never fade.

Pallbearers:

Carlos Ramirez, Austin Johnson, Tim Thilleman, Justin Casey, Renn Thilleman, Jesse Johnson

Honorary Pallbearer:

Landon Casey