Phyllis Ruth Vannoy

Phyllis Ruth Vannoy, 78, of Nicholasville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at her home with her loved ones by her side.

Born on August 25, 1946, in Corbin, Kentucky, she was a daughter of the late Jack T. and Marie Goodin Scalf.

Many years ago on a trip home with her sister Peggy, Phyllis met the love of her life, Gerald Vannoy. They married on August 2, 1965, in Jellico, TN, and their love story would last almost sixty years. Their love story would include travel, adventure, and both good and bad times but through it all, they had each other. From this union would bring three children, a son, Jimmy (Jennifer) Vannoy; a daughter, Missy (Derek) Benge; and a second son, Jeremy Vannoy, who preceded her in death much too soon on November 9, 2023. She is also survived by her grandchildren who called her “Mamaw,” who will always remember her for drinking diet coke and using her flyswatter. Those beloved grandchildren are as follows: Trinity, Shelby, Clay, Serena, Mason, Sydney, Peyton, Taylor, and Charlie; and great-grandchildren, Zander, Emerson, Abrena, and Archie George.

Other survivors include a brother, Gary (Norma) Scalf; a sister, Vicki (David) Skrimager; and a brother-in-law, Doyle Vannoy.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Vannoy, who was married to Doyle Vannoy.

Phyllis was a quiet woman, but her bright eyes and infectious grin could light up any room. She often chose to be quiet with her iPad or book in hand, sitting and reading for hours. She loved playing cards, watching sports, sleeping in, staying up late, and watching her game show network. With her military husband Gerald, she had many adventures in places such as Germany, Holland, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Gerald and Phyllis loved being together and it was a rare occurrence to see them apart. She did many things for her husband and for the veterans. Phyllis also enjoyed traveling with her sisters and together they were always up for a good time. Her home was known for warmth, laughter, love, and good food. At a moment’s notice, Phyllis could always prepare a good meal. Their home was the site of many family and holiday gatherings.

She was an independent and strong woman that loved her family with a passion. Phyllis was a member of Cold Springs Baptist Church, where they would attend when she was able.

She was a shining example of love, kindness, and generosity. She was a fighter, and her family considers themselves better people for knowing her. She will be deeply missed.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at McKinney-Brown Funeral Home with Bro. Kenny Blevins, Bro. Roger Price, and Jeff Patterson officiating. Burial will follow in Cold Springs Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at McKinney-Brown Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Jimmy Vannoy, Derek Benge, Peyton Vannoy, Mason Vannoy, Clay Benge, and Mike Vannoy.

Memorial contributions may take the form of donations to the American Cancer Society to P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements for Mrs. Phyllis Vannoy are entrusted to McKinney-Brown Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.mckinneybrown.com.