Obituary of Phyllis Gray McElhaney
Phyllis “Petey” Gray McElhaney
Phyllis Gray McElhaney passed away on January 14, 2023 at the age of 89 from natural causes at Chandler Hall Hospice in Newtown, PA. She was born at home in Burgettstown, PA on August 18, 1933 to Phil S. and Carolyn (Richey) Gray. She was a true auburn haired Leo!
She leaves behind her adoring husband of 70 years, George M. McElhaney and 4 children: Amy G. McElhaney of Yardley, PA, Georgeann C. McElhaney of Lakewood, CO, Philip J. McElhaney (Susan Penner) of Kamuela, HI and Tomas M. McElhaney (Wendy Leeds) of Ripton, VT. She was preceded in death by her youngest daughter Lesa J. McElhaney of Danielson, CT. She also leaves behind 5 grandchildren whom she adored and spoiled: Sarah R. Micklas (Joseph), Malachi and Nathaniel Hemmert, Eryn McElhaney-Smith (Alek), Yanmei K. McElhaney, George J. Cote and two grandchildren in spirit, Dylan C. Smith and Hannah R. Osborne, along with 4 great-grandchildren. She was a fun and loving aunt to several nieces and a nephew.
Upon marrying George in 1952, her family life became rather nomadic moving from place to place as job opportunities arose for him. She carried on unflinchingly, her chicks in tow, moving as far away as California and Venezuela, S.A., back to PA, then to Monroe, NY, Danielson, CT and finally back to PA with eventual retirement to West Fenwick, DE. During retirement they spent 10 years RVing through much of the USA to carry on their nomadic lifestyle. The six years spent in Venezuela led to creating many friendships throughout the USA which provided lots of opportunity for RV destinations. In 2018 they moved to Langhorne, PA to be closer to family.
Phyllis had a long and adventurous life for which she was grateful but was the most happy when her chicks returned to the roost with their families in tow.
Interment will be private and held at a later date. Donations in Phyllis’ memory can be made to the National MS Society or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the care of the FitzGerald-Sommer Funeral Home 17 S. Delaware Ave. Yardley, PA 19067. Condolences for the family can be left at www.fitzgeraldsommerfuneralhome.com.
