Phyllis B. Nelson, a former longtime resident of Pacific Palisades, passed away on January 24 after an unprecedented 25-year battle with lung cancer. She was a loving and devoted daughter, mother and grandmother, sister, mother-in-law, aunt and friend to many.
Phyllis was born March 29, 1933 in Chicago, Illinois. After moving to Southern California at 13, she attended North Hollywood High, Valley College and UC Berkeley before graduating from UCLA with a degree in education.
In 1961, Phyllis settled in the Palisades with her then husband Dr. Robert Nelson, a local dentist. She spent many years skiing and camping in the Sierras, playing tennis at the Riviera Tennis Club and selling real estate in the Palisades.
An avid world traveler until the end, Phyllis enjoyed museums, plays, movies, musicals and spending time with all of her loving friends. For the last 24 years, her three grandchildren were the light of her life. Known for her zest of life, joy and new experiences even in illness, Phyllis never complained and always remained positive.
She is survived by her daughter, Kari Johnson of Orem, Utah (husband Mark); granddaughters Alexia and Sierra; son Thomas Nelson of Pacific Palisades; grandson Oliver; and sister Betty Johnson of Temecula.
Memorial services are pending.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
