Phyllis Cistrunk was born on April 17, 1959, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Carrie and Calvin Cistrunk. She was the baby of five children born to this union. At an early age, Phyllis began her Christian walk and was baptized at Providence Missionary Baptist Church, where she remained a member.

Phyllis grew up in the Mt. Pleasant neighborhood and was known for her kind spirit, and her protective nature, she was one “tough cookie” She was caring, no nonsense—someone who always kept it real. She attended Paul Revere Elementary and Nathan Hale Junior High School and graduated from John Adams High School in 1976, a year earlier than expected.

On March 31, 1978, Phyllis welcomed her son, Ramon Cistrunk. Two years later, she welcomed her daughter, Cariyale “Sheri” Cistrunk. She was a loving and devoted mother who always put her children first. Phyllis raised her children in the Larchmere neighborhood, where she showed her love through caring for her home and yard. She was also an active part of the Larchmere PorchFest  for many years. She was known for being an amazing host.

Phyll was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She began her career with the United States Postal Service in December 1979, where she devoted 40 years of service. During her time there, she built lifelong friendships and was known for her strong work ethic and vibrant personality. One of her favorite past times in the late 80s was playing softball with her postal family, the Foxy family. You could often find her at Woodhill Park on Saturdays enjoying good times. During her time at the postal ser vice she met lots of friends, some who became family. It was there she met her best friend, Pat Williams, forming a bond that lasted 46 years. She will also be remembered for her creativity—especially for building an “office” out of cardboard boxes to stay warm while working on the dock.

Auntie Phyllis was truly a jack-of-all-trades. In 1996, she attended school to become a nail technician and became the family’s go-to nail tech. Her love for creativity expanded as she developed a passion for home improvement after watching HGTV with her daughter. Affectionately known as “Ms. Home Depot,” there was nothing she wouldn’t try to fix or build herself. She was the go-to and would get it done. “Biggie” worked on projects ranging from decks and bathrooms to headboards and even custom garbage can covers. She also proudly helped her daughter complete her home.

As a grandmother, Phyllis shared a special and unbreakable bond with her grandchildren, Cailynn and Dylon. Known to them as “Ms. Do It All,” she was their biggest supporter—always present whether at dance recitals, band events, football games, or simply when they needed someone to talk to. She poured endless love into them, making sure they always felt supported and cared for. Some of their most cherished memories include baking together, roasting pumpkin seeds, playing Yahtzee, and learning life lessons along the way. She was incredibly proud of her grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to celebrate them.

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Phyllis peacefully departed this life in her sleep to join her parents, Carrie and Calvin Cistrunk; her big brother, Larry Cistrunk; and her dear friend, Pat Harris. (The Thelma to her Louise)

Phyllis leaves to cherish her loving memory her siblings: Carolyn Diane Oden, Chareese Allen, Dennis (Sharon) Cistrunk, and Rhonda Moore; her children, Ramon Cistrunk and Cariyale “Sheri” Cistrunk; her beloved grandchildren, Cailynn “Pumpkin” Cistrunk, Dylon “Dyl” Cistrunk, and Charrai Cistrunk; 14 nieces and nephews; 34 great-nieces and nephews; and a host of extended family and friends.

Phyllis will be remembered for her strength, her humor, her generosity, and her unwavering love for her family. Her legacy of love, resilience, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved her.