Phyllis Amelia Diehl Dinkins

Phyllis Amelia Diehl Dinkins, 88, died peacefully in her sleep in Wilmore, Kentucky on March 8th, 2020, following a long battle with cancer. Phyllis will be remembered for her deep abiding faith, her radiant smile, and her encouraging words. Born in New Stanton, Pennsylvania, on Groundhog’s Day (2/2/32), Phyllis graduated from Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky, in 1954, and went to Cuba to work as an elementary school teacher for a year. She married her college sweetheart, Burrell Dinkins, on August 5th, 1955, in her hometown church in New Stanton. Phyllis’s teaching, ministry, and evangelizing took her to Brazil, Georgia, Oklahoma, Florida, and Kentucky. Her friendly demeanor and humble attitude made her sought after in all areas of her life. She could have taught a master class in kindness. People gravitated to Phyllis. Conversation with her was relaxed, her easy smile and undivided attention filling you with a gentle peace. Phyllis was an avid reader, a creative cook, and loved her arts and crafts. For over 35 years, she shared the spirit of Christmas with original handcrafted cards. She especially loved making quilts. Phyllis’s beautiful voice could be heard singing her favorite hymns throughout her decades of service and worship with the United Methodist Church.She loved her husband of 64 years, her five children, their spouses, and her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a true believer in practicing hospitality and celebrating others. Phyllis will be greatly missed by friends and family, including her sister Ruth Feagin Gordon, husband Burrell Dinkins, son Randy (wife Billie), daughter Ruth (husband Bob), son Walter (wife Becky), daughter Susana (husband Ray), and son Paul (wife Susan), numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many other members of the extended family. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Amelia Diehl, and four brothers.In lieu of flowers or other material gifts, those wishing to express their love for Phyllis can dedicate a donation in her name to Wesley Village (wvillage.org), or by mailing a check to:Wesley Village, 1125 Lexington Road, Wilmore, KY 40390. A memorial service for Phyllis will be held at a later date.