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Phyllis A. Fuhr, 84, of Washington, MO, passed away on October 23, 2025. Mrs. Fuhr, daughter of the late Dr. Oswald Waech and Marion nee Korn, was born on November 27, 1940, in Buffalo, NY. She graduated from Lutheran High School Central in St. Louis, MO and then received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Harris Teachers College in St. Louis. On June 25, 1966, she was united in marriage to Wayne Fuhr at St Peter’s Lutheran Church in St. Louis.
Mrs. Fuhr began her teaching career at Lafayette School (St. Louis Public Schools), teaching 1st and 4th grades between 1963 and 1966. She then taught 1st grade at Labadie School (Washington School District) from 1966 to 1968, followed by kindergarten at South Point School from 1968 to 1969. From 1969 to 1975, she taught 2nd grade part-time at Immanuel Lutheran in Washington, then taught preschool from 1980 to 1985. She went on to teach at Sassafras and Scissors Preschool in Marthasville from 1985 to 1991. Following that, Phyllis returned to Immanuel Lutheran, where she taught 2nd grade until her retirement in 2006.
She always had a love of music, playing the organ from 8th grade on. Phyllis accompanied choirs in high school, as well as at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She loved singing and was in various choirs and small vocal groups. She also taught piano lessons to a large number of students. Her musical talents brought joy to many, and she was known for sharing her passion for music with both her students and her church community. Whether performing solos or harmonizing with others, Phyllis's dedication to music enriched every gathering she attended.
Her proudest moments were the birth of her sons after a 9-year wait, as well as the birth of her only grandchild, Audrey, in November of 2007.
Phyllis loved traveling, including a trip to Hawaii, cruises to the Western Caribbean, Alaska, and the Bahamas, and a 50th Anniversary trip to Disney World. She also enjoyed many trips to Branson and Lake of the Ozarks, spending quality time with family and friends. She also loved to cook and bake, and her wonderful food and goodies were a central part of almost every gathering. She always wanted to make sure you went back for seconds, but hopefully you saved room for dessert!
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Judy McClymonds and brother, David Waech.
Among her survivors are her husband, Wayne Fuhr of Washington; two children, Darryl Fuhr and wife Barbra (and stepdaughter Laura Hubenthal) of Union and Bryan Fuhr and wife Amie of St. Charles; sister, Marcia Waech of Anaheim, CA; granddaughter, Audrey Fuhr of St. Charles; brother-in-law, Doug McClymonds of Fargo, ND; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt, Miller Funeral Home. Memorial service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church or the Wayne Clements Scholarship Fund.
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