Phyllis Mary CHRYSTIAN
In Loving Memory of Phyllis Chrystian
April 8, 1942 – December 2, 2025
With great love and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Phyllis Chrystian, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Phyllis was born on April 8, 1942, and lived a life filled with kindness, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Phyllis married the love of her life, Daniel Chrystian, on July 2, 1960. Together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage — years filled with laughter, hard work, and an unshakeable partnership that anchored their family. After marrying, Phyllis and Daniel spent a short time in Wetaskiwin before settling into the High Park community in Edmonton in 1961, where they built a warm and welcoming home.
She attended Quarrel School in Daysland and grew up on the family farm with the values of resilience, humility, and generosity that shaped her early years.
In her adult life, Phyllis dedicated herself to raising her family, proudly working as a homemaker and creating a loving home for her children. Later, she joined the staff at Fanny’s Fabrics, where she met many wonderful friends. She cherished the creativity the work allowed. Sewing, crafting, and bringing beautiful ideas to life.
Phyllis had a creative spirit and a gentle touch. She loved painting with watercolours and filling her home with the comforting smell of fresh baking. And while she enjoyed many hobbies, her love for gardening was more than just an interest, it was a true dedication. Her vegetable and flower gardens were her pride and joy, and her yard became a sanctuary not only for her, but for her family as well. She nurtured her garden with the same care and patience she gave to the people she loved, and she shared that joy generously with those around her.
She was also a passionate sports fan. Phyllis loved cheering on the Edmonton Oilers, especially her favourite players Paul Coffey and Jordan Eberle. She enjoyed watching curling as well — always rooting for her favourite skip, Brad Gushue. But more than anything, her greatest joy came from watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play sports and participate in their activities. Whether it was a game, a recital, or a school event, she was always proud, always supportive, and always their biggest fan.
Phyllis also passed down her love of cooking and baking to her family. She delighted in teaching her children and grandchildren how to cook all sorts of meals, sharing recipes, traditions, and the stories behind them. Her kitchen was a place of learning, laughter, and love — a space where generations gathered and memories were made.
Above all else, Phyllis treasured her family. She is survived by her devoted husband Daniel; her children Eldon (Guylaine), Donna Hefford (Wayne), Tracy Winship (Dave); her daughter-in-law Veronica; her brothers Vern (Emily) and Duane (Bev); her grandchildren Jessica, Brock, Shayne, Marlee, Morgan; step-grandchildren Will, Ruthanne, Emily, Brandon, Lauren; and her great-grandchildren Jack and Norah. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with them — sharing stories, enjoying visits, and watching her family grow.
Phyllis is predeceased by her parents Stella and Joseph Ronsko; her siblings Dave and Florence; and her son Darrel Chrystian. We take comfort in knowing she is reunited with them now.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt note of thanks to the staff and recreation team at the nephrology continuing-care group at Norwood for all the kindness and support they shared with Phyllis. Their care and compassion brought comfort and dignity during her final days.
Phyllis will be remembered for her gentle heart, her quiet strength, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave so freely and the family she built with such care. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Service & Celebration Details
- Mass will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Parish,
18407 60 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 1X7
11:00 AM on December 10 - A Celebration of Life will follow at:
High Park Community Hall
11032 154 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5P 2K1
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (drop-in)
All family and friends are welcome to share stories, hugs, and memories.
Our heartiest condolences for the Family!
Eldon & Guylaine.
Kind and warm regards,
Javeria & Fahad.
My condolences to the family. It was always a joy to visit with Phyllis when I would come by and cut her hair. I never left empty handed, whether is was some food, gift or a big smile. You will be missed.
My sincere Condolences to you and the family, may she rest in peace.
My sincere condolences on the passing of a wonderful human being. Phyllis was a treasure to her family , her friends and her community. She always had a smile and kind word for everyone.
From all of us, sincere condolences to the entire family. Phyllis was such a good person.
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Donna, I am so very sorry for your loss but your mom is in a better place where there is no more suffering.
Dearest Tracy and your whole family. I am very sorry to hear about your Mom. Even though I never met her , hearing you talk about her made me feel like I did know her; from cooking and gardening and canning. I didn’t know she worked at Fannys fabrics – so cool. I know what a hard time this is for you. Gather strength from the people around you because they all care. I cannot make it to her service but I will be thinking about you all. Sincerely Susan Babych Manchak – golfing buddy and more!
Our Condolences to all family!
Mrs. C,
Thank you for sharing your pies, donuts, mustard beans, perogies, and cabbage rolls over the last 30 +years I think of you often, when I am cooking in my kitchen.
Spring is the best time of year. Greenhouse visits! “It’s easy to fill the box of the truck”
We all miss your beautiful flower pots and baskets. You and Mr. C made a great team keeping a very well manicured lawn and beautiful yard. The peaceful bird bath fountain and many visits in the backyard.
The last number of years has been a rough journey. Your family was there along the whole way. You are resting now.
Peace in knowing you have never been alone, now visiting with Darryl, your siblings and other familv.
You are the Matriarch of your family and valued by your extended family and community.
Mrs C, you are dearly missed!
From heaven you will be cheering your family on! And of course Go Oilers Go! Let’s go Blue Jays!
Audra, Chris, Rebecca, Tristan
Eldon, Guylaine, Donna & Tracy. My sincerest condolences to the entire family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry for all of Phyllis family at her loss she and Daniel were wonderful neighbors and family Sherrin Campbell