Phyllis M. Fritz, age 75, of Wilkes-Barre, PA passed away Saturday morning, August 23, 2025 at the Allied Services Wilkes-Barre Hospice Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Meshoppen, PA, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Joseph Bell, Sr. (d. December 22, 2004) and Rosalyn L. McAvoy Bell (d. February 17, 2018).  She was a 1967 graduate of Elk Lake High School.  After high school, she continued her education, earning her DPMA certification and beginning her career with Dana Perfumes Corp.  It was during this time she met her future husband, Charles "Charlie" Fritz, Jr.  The two married on October 14, 1972, and together built a beautiful life, raising their three children.

Phyllis treasured her role as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother above all else.  She never missed a baseball game, school concert, or cheerleading tournament, and her children always knew they had her unwavering support.  Known for her creativity, she had a talent for crafting—making everything from clothing and Christmas stockings to Easter candies and holiday wreaths.  She also had a sharp eye for bargains, a quality her family fondly remembers.

The seventh of nine children, Phyllis deeply valued her large, close-knit family.  She especially loved family gatherings, with Bernie's annual Fourth of July party being among her most cherished traditions.  Her devotion and warmth earned her the affectionate nickname "Aunt Tilly" from her many nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored.

In recent years, Phyllis proudly embraced her greatest title of all—"Mimi" to her grandsons, Jeffrey and Lucas.  They were the light of her life, and she delighted in sharing stories of their accomplishments.  Whether cheering them on at sporting events, caring for the when they were sick, or enjoying simple lunches at Sam's Club, Phyllis' love for her grandchildren shone brightly in everything she did.

Phyllis also dedicated time to working with children through her employment at Nutrition Inc. in the local schools before her retirement, where she was admired for her kindness and compassion.

Phyllis is survived by her husband of 52 years, Charles E. Fritz, Jr.; her children, Brandon Fritz of Mountain Top, PA, Keith Fritz of Plains, PA and Heather Fritz of Dallas, PA; her grandchildren, Jeffrey and Lucas; her daughter-in-law, Amber Fritz of Swoyersville, PA; her siblings, Joseph Bell, Jr. (Virginia) of Lake Carey, PA, David Bell of Tunkhannock, PA, Bernard Bell of Springville, PA, Marilyn Bell of Auburn Center, PA, and Rich Bell (Debbie) of Mehoopany, PA; her sisters-in-law, Dawn Bell of Nicholson, PA and Debra Bell of Laceyville, PA; her aunt, Catherine Kuras of Sudbury, MA; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her brothers, William Bell, James Thomas Bell, and Edward Bell; her sisters-in-law, Gretchen Bell and Frances Bell; and her great-nephew, Mason Bell.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 11:00 AM from the St. Joachim's Roman Catholic Church, Sterling Street, Meshoppen, PA 18630 with Father Patrick Albert officiating.  Family and friends may call at the church on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 10:00 AM until the time of the Mass.

Phyllis's family would like to extend special thanks to Allied Services Hospice in Wilkes-Barre, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York and Medical Oncology Associates of Wyoming Valley for their unwavering support and care.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Phyllis's name to the Renal Race, c/o Erin Rebo Pikul, 183 Red Coat Lane, Hanover Twp., PA 18706.

Arrangements are entrusted with the Sheldon Funeral Home, 8206 SR 6, Meshoppen, PA.  Online condolences may be made at www.SheldonFuneralHomes.com.