Phyllis Lenette Washington

We share with heavy hearts the passing of our beloved Phyllis Washington, who transitioned to her heavenly home on March 11, 2026.

Phyllis Washington was born on June 5, 1963, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Mary Lee Conley and Charles Coates. She was a woman of unwavering faith, compassion, and service who dedicated her life to ministry, family, and uplifting others.

In 1990, Phyllis was baptized in the name of Jesus and received the gift of the Holy Spirit at Agape Community Church, marking the beginning of her lifelong commitment to serving God and her community. On October 1, 1990, she united in marriage with Robert Washington. From this union, two children were born: Ishamenia West (Aaron West) and Tiffany Washington.

Phyllis valued education and spiritual leadership. On May 7, 2016, she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Central Baptist College with a Bachelor of Science in Leadership in Ministry.

Throughout her life, Phyllis faithfully served in many roles within the church. At the time of her passing, she served as Secretary of the Arkansas District Council, Assistant Pastor to Frank Stewart at the Conway location, Christian Department Secretary for the Arkansas District Council, State Altar Worker for the Arkansas District Council, Prayer Warrior, Armor Bearer for First Lady Jacqueline Stewart, and as a baptismal and altar worker.

Over the years she also served as a Sunday School Superintendent and Teacher, Head Usher, Choir Member, and participated in Women’s Ministry and MDTW. She was a Facilitator for Servant Groups, a Church Office Worker, Facilitator of the Single Parents Ministry, and Leader of the Conway Drama Ministry. She also volunteered at UCA College Square.

Phyllis was an inspiration to many women and to everyone who knew her. She was full of life, generous in spirit, and always willing to give of herself to help others. She had a vision of creating a home for single mothers and their children, providing them with a safe place and a second chance at life.

Beyond her ministry work, she cherished her family deeply. She loved pouring into her grandchildren and enjoyed taking long walks and visiting art galleries.

She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Coates, and her sister, Robin Banks.

Phyllis leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Mary Lee Conley; her loving husband, Robert Washington; her children, Ishamenia West (Aaron West) and Tiffany Washington; her siblings, Jerrell Coates, Gwendolyn Larry, Terrell Lee, Tracey Coates Lampkins, Reginald Coates, Baron Coates, Jovan Coates, and Andre Smith; her beloved grandchildren; and a host of extended family, church family, and friends whose lives were forever touched by her love, faith, and service.