Phyllis Spellman Kubelka

Phyllis Marie Spellman Kubelka, 81, of Davidson County, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, September 27, 2025, at her home with her family by her side.

The family will receive visitors from 1:00–2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Lexington, NC. A Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville, IL.

Born on December 2, 1943, in Fredonia, WI, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Thomas Francis and Caryl Winifred (Clark) Spellman. After graduating high school, she attended the University of Wisconsin, where she majored in History.

She met Joe, the love of her life, on a botched blind date, and together they began a journey that led to their marriage on September 23, 1967, in Verona, WI — a union that grew into 58 years of love and devotion. They had just celebrated their anniversary the week before her passing.

Phyllis had a wide range of interests that brought her joy throughout her life. She was an avid reader who found comfort and joy in books. Always valuing knowledge and awareness, she faithfully kept up with current events. Phyllis delighted in playing cards, gathering often with friends for games filled with laughter and fellowship. Even though she left the Midwest, she was a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan, and enjoyed following her team wherever she was. Generous of her time, she engaged in volunteer work and was an active member of the Catholic Church throughout her life.

Known for her fiery spirit, sharp wit, and trademark saying, “It is what it is,” Phyllis lived with intelligence, determination, and grace. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend — a matriarch who guided her family with warmth, care, and prayerful devotion. Fiercely competitive at the card table and admired as a stylistic tastemaker, she balanced toughness with humor, sassy charm, and unwavering love. Travel-curious and full of life, she embraced the world with wonder while staying rooted in faith and family.

She will be remembered as a strong, loving, and generous woman whose radiant presence and devoted heart touched all who knew her.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her daughter, Shannon Marie, and siblings Patricia Spellman and Neil Spellman.

She is survived by her husband, Joe Kubelka; her children Caryn Bowden (Allen) of Burgaw, NC, Caryl Behmoiras (Al) of Branford, CT, and Michael Kubelka of Vista, CA; and her beloved grandchildren: Caitlyn Suggs (Daniel), Patrick Bowden (Abby), Samantha Bowden, Jacob Peck (Brooklyn), Sarah O’Hara (Christian), Hope Behmoiras, Aidan Kubelka, and Brooklyn Kubelka, along with their families. She also leaves behind nine siblings and their families: Bill Spellman (Maggie), Mike Spellman (Chris), Peg Spellman (Cyndie), Paul Spellman (Ardy), Steve Spellman (Pu), Jim Spellman (Lutie), Joe Spellman (Ida), Mary Feller, and Carolyn Olson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association (heart.org), Ronald McDonald House Charities (rmhc.org), or a charity of your choice.