Phyllis Ann Belt, formerly of Stratford, Oklahoma, was born April 10, 1934, in Lightning Ridge to Earl and Alma (Dunn) Stewart. She passed away September 1, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 91 years, 4 months and 21 days. Phyllis grew up in the Lightning Ridge area and began her education there before graduating from high school in Fitzhugh. She continued her studies at East Central College. On February 7, 1953, she married Doug Belt, the love of her life, and together they raised two daughters in Stratford. Phyllis and Doug were devoted members of the First Baptist Church, where she played the organ for many years and taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She was a remarkable woman, cherished by her two daughters, six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Known for her independence, intelligence and determination, Phyllis was a former businesswoman and CFO, pursuing several different jobs before settling into her main career at Home Federal Savings and Loan in Ada, Oklahoma, in 1967. After dedicating 28 years to the business and overseeing its merger with Commercial Federal Bank, she retired as chief financial officer in 1995.
Phyllis made the most of her retirement years, travelling, camping and fishing her way across the country with Doug. In 2011 the duo relocated from Stratford to Westbrook Gardens Senior Living Community in Purcell, Oklahoma, where Phyllis made numerous friends and was cared for dearly by nurses and staff. She had a passion for books, puzzles, birds and plaid shirts and was a talented pianist and organist. An avid sports enthusiast, she loved watching college basketball, OU Women’s Softball and professional tennis; we know she’s currently enjoying a front row seat to the U.S. Open from above. A devout Christian, she lived 91 fulfilling years and is now reunited with her beloved Doug (Nandad). Rest in peace, dear MeMa. We look forward to seeing you again and are eternally grateful for your wisdom and love.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Alma Stewart, and her husband, Doug. She is survived by her daughters, Rhonda Savage and husband Mike of Purcell, and Donna Rhynes and husband Kenny of Ada. Her grandchildren include Leah Perkins and husband Steve of Newcastle, Oklahoma; Adam Savage and wife Suni of Ardmore, Oklahoma; Trey Rhynes and wife Ashley of Midwest City, Oklahoma; Amanda Serna and husband Travis of Tuttle, Oklahoma; Stephanie Coulson and husband Steven of Hideout, Utah; and Elizabeth Townley and husband Darren of Washington, Oklahoma. She is also survived by her brother, Earl Stewart Jr. and wife Carol of Fitzhugh, as well as 13 great-grandchildren: Ethan, Luke, Harper, Kallen, Gabbi, Phoenix, Aspen, Devlyn, Grayson, Evie, Maddix, Tate and Olive.
Visitation was held Thursday, September 4, 2025, at DeArman/Pickard Funeral Home. Graveside services were 2:30 p.m. Friday, September 5, 2025, at Lightning Ridge Cemetery in Roff, Oklahoma, officiated by Mike Savage.
