Phyllis Ann Whitmire

Phyllis Ann Whitmire, a dedicated educator who devoted her life to the education of students of all ages, peacefully passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023, in Spartanburg, SC. Born on November 22, 1940, in Spartanburg, she was the daughter of Edmund David Malone and Ida Bell Graham Malone. 

Phyllis' passion for learning led her to pursue higher education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Winthrop University in 1962. She later went on to obtain a master’s degree in Administration & Supervision from Florida Atlantic University.

Phyllis began her illustrious career in education starting in the classroom as a teacher and after completing her master's degree she became an assistant principal in Miami-Dade County Public Schools until her retirement in 1994.  She made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students.  Following her retirement, she continued to contribute to the field of education by working as a supervisor of Student Teachers at Florida International University.

In 2007, Phyllis returned to South Carolina to live closer to her family and joined USC-Upstate where she continued supervising Student Teachers several more years. Her dedication and commitment to nurturing young minds left an indelible mark on the future generation.

Phyllis had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and cherished being surrounded by others who shared her love for learning. Her genuine enthusiasm inspired both her colleagues and students alike. Phyllis believed that education was a lifelong journey and consistently encouraged others to explore new horizons through knowledge and understanding.

Phyllis is survived by her loving family; sister, Patti M. Fowler and husband, Mark of Wellford, SC, as well as brother-in-law Virgil R. Cate and nephews, David Cate (Carrie), Jason Cate (Heather), Matthew Fowler (Logan), and Mitchell Fowler along with their respective families, cousins and many friends.  She will also be missed by Betsy Sanchez, her caregiver and special friend of many years.  

In addition to her parents, Phyllis is predeceased by her sister, Peggy Malone Cate.

The family will receive friends Friday, January 5, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM at Floyd's Greenlawn Chapel located at 2075 E Main St, Spartanburg, SC, 29307. A Funeral Service will follow at the same location at 3:00 PM. Phyllis will be laid to rest at the Greenlawn Memorial Gardens in Spartanburg following the service.  Rev. Mark Fowler will officiate her services.