Phyllis Ann Dawson Mellinger Moore, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, entered her heavenly rest on September 21, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born on October 28, 1944, to Ralph and Mae (Fisher) Dawson.
Phyllis was a woman of deep faith, devoted family ties, and a caring heart.
She was a committed member of Forks of the Brandywine Evangelical Presbyterian Church, where she worshipped for more than seventy years. Over the years, she taught Sunday school, worked in the nursery and preschool ministry, and served as an ordained Deacon. Daily time in prayer and Bible reading formed her character and attitude. Her faith was woven into the way she lived and cared for others throughout her life.
Family was at the center of Phyllis's world. She was deeply devoted to both her immediate and extended family including cousins, nieces, nephews, and others. She took great pleasure in her family history. Many of her closest friends were cousins and people she had known since childhood. She cherished the connections between generations and was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved.
Phyllis was a consummate caregiver. She devoted herself to the safety, comfort, and well-being of her children and extended that same loving care to many others. Her nurturing nature was evident in countless ways, from the blankets she crocheted for her grandchildren, to countless haircuts she gave to folks who needed them, to the care she bestowed on her beloved cats, dogs, and ducks. She also enjoyed decorating ceramics and was known for her elegant handwriting and her meticulous gift wrapping.
After raising her five children, Phyllis worked for a time as a newspaper journalist for The Tri-County. She later took a position at Cropper’s, working in the deli. Her final job was in the kitchen at Heatherwood Nursing Home, where she found great joy in bringing delight to the residents as the facility’s Dessert Chef. She loved seeing the smiles her desserts brought to their faces and took pride in making each day a little sweeter for those she served.
Phyllis was also a devoted wife. She was first married to Richard E. Mellinger and later married Danny R. Moore, with whom she shared almost 58 years of marriage. Phyllis dedicated herself to his care, faithfully providing the love and support he needed during prolonged health challenges. His survival was nothing short of miraculous as many health care professionals attested to over the years. Answered prayer and her meticulous nursing were credited to his longevity. Caring for those she loved was one of the defining qualities of her life.
Phyllis leaves behind a family that was the great joy and purpose of her life. She is survived by her five children: Connie and her husband, Karl Troupe; Carole and her husband, Rick Lowry; Russell Moore; Daniel and his wife, Tara (Stern) Moore; and Mitchell Moore. She is also survived by fifteen grandchildren and spouses, twenty great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; her sister, Jane Lee Miller; her brother, Peter Dawson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Richard E. Mellinger; her second husband, Danny R. Moore; her parents, Ralph and Mae (Fisher) Dawson; her sister, Adele O’Connell; her brother, Ralph Dawson, Jr.; and her daughter-in-law, Ann (Sarnecki) Moore.
Phyllis will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her enduring faith, and nurturing spirit, and the countless ways she cared for others. She leaves a legacy of love that will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A viewing will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at The Forks of the Brandywine Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1648 Horseshoe Pike, Glenmoore, PA.
A Celebration of Life and Resurrection will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial and a luncheon, all at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Forks of the Brandywine would be appreciated. Phyllis was lovingly supported by her church family throughout the years, and a gift to the church would be a meaningful way to honor her. Gifts can be mailed, dropped off in person or shared online at forkschurch.org/donations. Or, if you prefer, you can support the Parkesburg Trap, Neuter, and Release program.
The Labs Funeral Home of Honey Brook is coordinating the funeral services. For additional information and online condolences, please visit www.thelabsfh.com