Phyllis Jean Kern, age 94, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, at Ava's Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She was married to Dale Kern for 60 years. Phyllis enjoyed spending much of her time at the lake fishing and hosting family and friends. Later in life, she discovered she had a talent for painting in oil and watercolors. She was especially proud of her still lifes and nature scenes and left a legacy of her works to her family.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Dale; parents, Earl and Marie Rook; son, Michael Kern; brother, William Rook; and sister, Jacqualyn Rook.  She is survived by daughters Christiane Hicks (David), Lori Kern (Robert Wight), sisters Chyrle Gould (Jack), Mary Rook, and brothers Dennis Rook (Nancy) and Dean Rook (Julie). Phyllis is also survived by nine grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Many cousins, nieces, and nephews have also been an important part of her life.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Rosehill Cemetery in Wentworth, South Dakota.