Phyllis Jean Caldbeck, 85, of Big Arm, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014, at St. Luke Hospital in Ronan, after an extended illness.

She was born on May 30, 1929, in Houstonia, Mo., to Jesse and Daisy Sparks. The family moved to a farm near Columbia Falls in 1940, and she graduated from Flathead County High School in 1947.

In 1947, Phyllis met the love of her life at the Lake Blaine Roller Rink, and on Feb. 22, 1948, she married Ronald E. Caldbeck. Ron and Phyllis stayed in the Flathead Valley and went on to raise eight beautiful children who have brought them much joy and much more family.

Phyllis enjoyed working with horses, growing a garden, painting a picture and cooking for her family and friends.

In 1952, she found the faith that had sustained her and her family over the years. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, she helped many people learn about Jehovah God's promise of a beautiful future for all of mankind on a paradise Earth. She looked forward to being reunited with all of her loved ones in the near future where Jehovah God “will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.” Rev. 21:4.

Survivors include her husband, Ronald, of Big Arm; three daughters, Vicki Ewing of Big Arm, Valerie and Les Dennison of Kila, and Rebecca and John McGinnis of Kalispell; three sons, Steven and Karen Caldbeck of Polson, Byram and Barbara Caldbeck of Polson, and Ronald J. Caldbeck of Lakeside; 22 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters; a son, Geoffery Caldbeck; a daughter, Rena Cain; and a daughter-in-law, Gay Anne Caldbeck.

A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 37719 S. Commerce Lane, in Polson. A reception will follow.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory.