Phyllis Jane Speck

Phyllis Jane Speck entered her heavenly home on July 17, 2024, in Temple, Texas. There will be a celebration of life service on Saturday, July 20th at 11:00 am at First Baptist Belton with a visitation beforehand from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with the family.

Phyllis was born on August 30, 1936, in Davenport, Oklahoma to Charles and Vida Jenkins. She was the baby of the family with two older brothers, Charles and Lee. She lived in Davenport, Oklahoma where her parents owned Jenkins Grocery and Dry Goods. She was a twirler, basketball and softball player as well as playing in the band. She received the Danforth Award which recognizes character, well-balanced personal development, and leadership skills. In addition, she received the freshman scholarship to Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma.

In college she participated in archery, swimming, volleyball, square dancing, modern dance and was a fullback in field hockey. She was President of the Panhellenic Board and President of the Tri Sigma sorority. The Murdough Hall Citizenship award and Outstanding Senior Athlete were some of her many awards before she graduated in 1958 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

Phyllis married Edward Speck on August 22, 1958, and they were married for 65 years. She was a physical education teacher in Tulsa, OK, Cushing, OK, Moore, OK and Midland, TX. Daughter, Shelli Speck Hellinghausen was born on August 22, 1962, and daughter Traci Speck Davis was born on September 6, 1965.

Phyllis exuded joy in all that she did and loved the Lord with all of her heart. Edward and Phyllis were jitterbug champions in college, and we know that she is dancing on streets of gold!

Phyllis is survived by her husband Edward Speck, daughter Shelli Hellinghausen (husband Marc), and daughter Traci Davis (husband Brad). She is also survived by 4 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and brothers.

Memorial contributions can be made to Family Promise of Bell County which is a ministry to the homeless that she coordinated for 4 years at her local church, First Baptist Belton. The address is 1411 E. Ave N, Temple, TX 76501.