Phyllis Saben

Age 95 of Coal City, Illinois, died Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at the ARC of Dwight.

Born March 13, 1931 in Wilmington, Illinois, Phyllis Louise was a daughter of Charles Everett Nowman and Ruby Grace (Tyler) Allen. She was raised in Wilmington Township and attended Moulton Grade School and Reed-Custer High School. Phyllis was a hard worker to support her family, holding several jobs over her career. Most recently, she held employment with Reichman Chemical Company as a security guard for 10 years until her well-earned retirement.

Phyllis was a devoted member of New Hope Presbyterian Church in Coal City, serving the church in many capacities over her years, particularly through leading Bible study groups. She was a great advocate for volunteerism, serving her community as a Boy Scout Den Mother and Girl Scout Troop Leader, President of the Parent Teacher Association, as well as 10 years of service with Meals on Wheels and 40 years with TOPS. Phyllis’ dedication to her community was rewarded by being named Coal City Woman of the Year in 2017, a recognition she cherished.

She also took pleasure in handcrafts, particularly needle point, and was an avid reader. Phyllis’ faith, dedication, and selflessness were her trademarks, setting a great example for any to follow. She will be dearly missed by her church, her community, and her beloved family.

Survivors include five children: Larry Ray Brown of Coal City, IL, Virginia (the late Gene) Proffitt of Wilmington, IL, Barb (Dennis) Lenzie of Braceville, IL, Michael (Todd) Glenn of Lockport, IL, and Trudy (Shawn) Kulish of Chicago, IL; three grandchildren: Brian (Toni) Brown of Coal City, IL, Owin (Kelly) Proffitt of Manteno, IL, and Bridget (Joseph) Cermak of Tampa, FL: four great grandchildren: Chloe and Declan Proffitt, and Joseph and Shannon Cermak; and many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents: Everett (Mildred) Nowman and Grace (Lloyd) Allen; three spouses: Beryl Brown, Donald Glenn, and Donald Saben; and one son, David Brown.

The family will receive friends at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway Street, in Coal City on Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 12:00 p.m. Reverend Jan Chandler will officiate, and cremation rites will be accorded following the services.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Phyllis’ memory to: New Hope Presbyterian Church, 80 North Garfield Street, Coal City, Illinois 60416.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Phyllis’ memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815/634-2125)