Erie Phyllis Volz

Erie Phyllis Volz, lovingly known as “Phyllis” to her friends and “Sis” to her family, passed away peacefully at her home in Clinton Township, Michigan, on May 9, 2026, at the age of 86 after a short battle with cancer.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband who she spent 61 years in marriage with, Reverend Jerry Volz; her parents, Esklein and Reecie Selvage; her brothers, Dan Selvage and Teddy Selvage; and her grandson, Ayden Jacob.

Phyllis is survived by her loving children: Richard Volz of Clinton Township, Michigan; Jennifer Volz of Lima, Ohio; and Christopher and Pilar Volz of Bogotá, Colombia.

She is also survived by her siblings: Mary and Richard Morris of Sunbury, Ohio; Charlene Selvage, of Centerburg, Ohio; Marty and Jim McCurdy of Delaware, Ohio; and Cathy and Greg Roy of Sunbury, Ohio.

Phyllis was a proud and loving grandmother to Kari and Andy Guisgand of Mount Clemens, Michigan; Kelly and Cory Detrick of Delta, Ohio; Kayla and Josh Volz-Friedland of Michigan; Andrew and Georgia Rettig of Lima, Ohio; Claudia and Doug Sodders of Lima, Ohio; Sevastian Volz of Bogotá, Colombia; and Maya Volz of Bogotá, Colombia. She was also blessed with many cherished great-grandchildren: Audrey, Bentley, Summer, Scarlet, Adelyn, Chloe, Mila, Jett, Cami, Analise, Madi, Cora and Arwen.

Most of Phyllis’s life was devoted to caring for and supporting her family, which was always her greatest joy and purpose. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose home was always filled with warmth and care. She loved spending time with her family and was happiest when surrounded by those she loved.

Phyllis also served faithfully alongside her husband as a pastor’s wife. In this role, she dedicated much of her life to church ministry, including teaching Sunday school, supporting Vacation Bible School programs, and actively participating in women’s groups. Her service, encouragement, and steady presence were a blessing to her church community.

She enjoyed quilting and sewing and was always willing to help others with a caring heart and steady presence. Though her family was the center of her life, she also spent several years working as a teacher, where she especially enjoyed working with younger elementary students. Her patience, kindness, and gentle spirit made a lasting impression on the children and families she served. She also had many years of experience working in multiple customer service roles, where her strong work ethic and caring nature were evident in every interaction.

A woman of deep faith, Phyllis lived her life devoted to Jesus Christ and was an active member of the American Lutheran Church in Mount Clemens, Michigan. Her faith, compassion, and unwavering love for others touched many lives and left behind a lasting legacy for her family and friends.

Scripture: Philippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held 12:30 pm, Saturday, May 30, 2026 at American Lutheran Church, 38795 Mulberry St., Clinton Twp MI, 48036. Visitation 11:30 am until time of service. A luncheon will follow service.