Martin & Phyllis Scott

Phyllis Ann (Midkiff) Scott, lovingly known as "Fifi," 86, and her husband, Martin Porter Scott, 89, of Caseyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully in Bluffton, South Carolina, surrounded by family. Phyllis passed on August 25, 2024, while Martin preceded her in death on November 26, 2023. Their love and dedication to each other were a testament to their nearly 50 years of marriage.

Phyllis was born in East Saint Louis, Illinois, in 1938 to Alfred and Aimee (Burden) Midkiff. She spent her career working for the Railroad Retirement Board before dedicating her time to volunteer work. Phyllis had a deep passion for the St. Louis Cardinals, attending games and supporting Cardinals Care, which benefits St. Louis Children's Hospital. She also enjoyed visiting and supporting the St. Louis Zoo, where she adopted a variety of animals, from zebras to cheetahs. Her love for the community extended to volunteering at the Caseyville Picnic, Caseyville parades, and the Mouse House. Phyllis was also a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Caseyville United Methodist Church.

Born in Chimes, Arkansas, in 1934, Martin was the son of Alfonso Scott and Verbie Reeves. He served in the United States Air Force from 1951 until his retirement in 1972. After his military service, he pursued a nursing degree from Belleville Area College (now SWIC). Martin was a dedicated member of his community, serving as Chief of the Caseyville Volunteer Fire Department and a member of the Lions Club and Collinsville Recreation Club. He was also an active Shriner, participating in the Ainad Shriners Temple of Southern Illinois in East St. Louis. Martin enjoyed spending time at the gym, riding his tractor and golf cart, and decorating for holidays at "Happy Hill." His love for his community and willingness to help others were defining characteristics.

Phyllis and Martin married in 1974, building a life together filled with love, family, and service to their community. Together, they enjoyed attending local fish fries and steak dinners, spending time with friends and family, and giving back in countless ways.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Aimee Midkiff; her sons, Jimmy Gass and Michael Gass; and her husband, Martin. Martin was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso Scott and Verbie Reeves; his siblings, Elsie Cope and Charles Scott; and his sons, David Scott and stepsons Jimmy and Michael Gass. Phyllis is survived by her son, Mark Gass; Martin’s son, Kenneth Scott; Phyllis’s siblings, David (Kathy) Midkiff and Patricia (Melvin) Scharf; and many cherished nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and godchildren.

Martin was preceded in death by his father, Alfonso Scott; his mother, Verbie Reeves; sister, Elsie Cope; brother, Charles Scott; and son, David Scott and was survived by his wife Phyllis Scott, and is survived by son, Kenneth Scott and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and godchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Phyllis’s memory to Saint Louis Cardinals Care (https://www.mlb.com/cardinals/community/donate-to-cardinals-care) or the Saint Louis Zoo (https://stlzoo.org/give/tribute-fund). In Martin’s memory, contributions to Shriners Children’s of Saint Louis (https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/giving) would be greatly appreciated.

A memorial visitation for Martin & Phyllis will be held Wednesday, October 16, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, 3412 FRANK SCOTT PKWY W, IL 62223-6849. A memorial service will occur Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 2:00 PM. A committal service will occur Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 2:45 PM at Valhalla Gardens of Memory.