Phyllis J. (Crooks) Altic, 98, a lifelong resident of South Bend passed away on Tuesday July 28, 2026, at the age of 98.

Phyllis was born in South Bend on July 6, 1928, the daughter of Clyde and Lenore (Ball) Crooks. 

On December 6, 1947, Phyllis and Clarence B. Altic Jr. were married at All Saints EUB Church and celebrated 73 years of marriage before Clarence’s passing in 2021. 

Phyllis was a current member of Grace U.M. Church and previously a member of Faith U.M. Church where she and Clarence were active members for over 50 years. 

Phyllis attended Lincoln Elementary and was a graduate of Riley High School. She was employed as a secretary by the South Bend Community School Corporation and was asked to help with the opening of the new John Marshall School in 1957.  After 38 years of devoted service, Phyllis retired in 1995.  Upon her retirement, a “Good Citizenship Award” plaque was established in her name.  This award was given to one outstanding student every June at the end of the school year in her honor.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Lindsae (Rev. David) Harrold of North Webster, IN and Judith Clifford of South Bend; grandsons Christopher (Dr. Anne) Clifford of South Bend, Michael (Diane) Clifford of Lafayette, and Kevin (Brianna) Harrold of Columbia City, IN and great grandchildren Caleb, Isaac, Mason, Kylie, and Reese Clifford and Jensen, Bennett, and Cassandra Harrold.

Phyllis was preceded in death by a by a son-in-law, Michael E. Clifford. 

Phyllis was a member of Shirks Organ Club and enjoyed playing her organ and attending music classes.  Among the little things, she loved being outside in her flower garden, cheering on Notre Dame, knitting dish cloths, and baking banana bread which she lovingly gave away.  The greatest joy for Phyllis was family.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of the Caring Cottage along with Center for Hospice Care, where she was provided exceptional care in her final months.

Entombment has already taken place at Southlawn Cemetery in a private service.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Mrs. Altic’s honor may do so to Grace United Methodist Church, 3012 S. Twyckenham Dr. South Bend, IN 46614 or to Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel is honored to be caring for the family.

Online condolences to the family may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

08/01/2026  djb