It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phyllis A. Frase, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and community pillar, who left this world peacefully on September 5, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on October 25, 1953, in Easton, MD, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Dorothy Cooper Breeding. Phyllis dedicated her life to serving her community and supporting her family with unwavering love.
Phyllis graduated from North Caroline High School in 1971, and soon after, she became a licensed cosmetologist. Her passion for helping others led her to a remarkable career in various roles, including over 25 years as a school bus driver, where she was known for her kindness and care for her students. Phyllis also contributed to the local automotive industry as the office manager at Murph's Auto Body and most recently worked as a medical assistant with Preston Family Physicians.
A lifelong member of the Preston Volunteer Fire Department, Phyllis made history in 1980 as one of the first female EMTs, demonstrating her courage and commitment to the safety of her community. Her spirit of service extended to her involvement with the Preston Lions Club and as the organizer for the Preston Hometown Heroes, where she worked tirelessly to honor those who served.
Phyllis married her beloved husband Carl Frase in 1972, and together they spent over 50 wonderful years nurturing a family filled with love and laughter. She took immense pride in her grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Her love for Elvis Presley not only characterized her own joy but also blossomed into cherished moments as she watched her granddaughter Avery dance competitively to Elvis songs.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Carl; her daughters Kristy Marshall and Jill Ostermann; her grandchildren Hunter Marshall (Samantha), Austyn Ostermann and Avery Ostermann; her great-grandchildren Myla and Garrett; her siblings Francis Breeding, Kathy Dill, Debbie Lawler and Janet Todd; her aunts June Johnson and Esther Cluley; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends that will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. And a special thank you to Suttler Post Farm in Mechanicsville, Maryland for their fond memories and unwavering friendship to Phyllis over the years.
A celebration of Phyllis's life will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 2:00 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Preston, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory, recount her many contributions, and embrace the warmth of her everlasting spirit. The family will receive friends on Friday, September 11 from 6:00 to 8:00 at Framptom Funeral Home in Federalsburg, and again at 1:00 on Saturday, one hour prior to the service.
Phyllis will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.