Phyllis Whitehurst Honor

June 24, 1945 - January 4, 2022

On January 4, 2022, Phyllis Whitehurst Honor (76) departed this earth for her eternal home. Phyllis was the fourth child born to the late James L. and Fannie Whitehurst. Due to her illness, she returned to the Tidewater area living in Norfolk, Virginia until the time of her demise. Phyllis was baptized into Christianity at an early age, growing and practicing her faith at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, Portsmouth, VA. Later in life she attended Preservation of Zion Fellowship in Fairfax, VA. She was educated in the Portsmouth Public School System, graduating from I.C. Norcom High School. Phyllis continued her education at Virginia State College, Petersburg, VA, where she earned her degree in accounting. Later, she became a lifetime member of the Virginia State University Alumni Association. While attending college she became aware of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. It was with these young women she chose to associate, serve, and become a member. Phyllis later joined the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter, became a Diamond Life Member, and was recognized for being a benefactor of the Delta Research & Education Foundation. Phyllis worked in various capacities within the US Federal Government, including several years in Germany. At the time of retirement, June 2002, her position was that of Acting Administrator Chief Financial Officer, Risk Management Agency, US Department of Agriculture. She was recognized for her noteworthy contribution in the implementation of the first FSA, FAS, and RMA National Mentoring Program. Phyllis was also a member of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. She was known for her charming and outgoing personality that won the hearts of many. Phyllis, with her radiant smile and spirit of adventure, was comical, a great conversationalist, very generous, and never met a stranger. She loved to read, enjoyed traveling, and often vacationed with family and friends. Phyllis had a great interest in humanity contributing to various organizations for the betterment of people. She volunteered and served in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. In addition, she volunteered at the Lamb Center, a day shelter for the homeless in Fairfax, VA, and performed mission work in Mexico. In all that she did and accomplished, she still found time to serve as a Realtor with Better Homes Realty, Inc. Phyllis was the loving and supportive wife to the late Lieutenant General Edward Honor, Sr. They hosted many dinner parties and social events for US dignitaries and Army Officers. They enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and friends, and cooking on the grill. Phyllis was predeceased by two brothers, James L. Jr. and Marvin Whitehurst and older sister Rose Ann Miller. She is survived by two brothers, Eugene and Michael Whitehurst, younger sister Betty Temple, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.