Phyllis Cutler

Phyllis Eckersell Cutler passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, at the age of 104, with family by her side. A woman of remarkable strength, independence, and spirit, Phyllis lived a long and full life with resilience.

Phyllis was born on July 29, 1922, in Rigby, Idaho, to Alavon Kinghorn Eckersell and William Eckersell, and was raised in Rexburg, Idaho. She attended Madison High School before continuing her education at Ricks College and later earning her bachelor’s degree from Utah State University in 1944. Remarkably, Phyllis was not only the first woman in her family to attend college, she was the first person to do so. At Utah State she met Les Cutler, an enlisted Marine, and the man who would become her lifelong partner. During World War II, while Les was on leave, the two were married on July 14, 1945. Shortly thereafter, they began their life together in Idaho Falls, building a home and family. Les preceded her in death in 2001.

Phyllis was the mother of three children: Susan, who died at birth; Marcia; and Buz. Her family remained central to her life, and in 2008, Marcia and Laurie Morton invited her to move to Portland, Oregon, to live with them. In 2019, she moved to Salt Lake City where Buz and his wife, Dr. Kelly Lundberg, reside. She lived in independent living at Legacy Village of Sugar House for the next seven years.

Phyllis was a strong and determined woman. Even after losing her sight, she maintained her independence. She used a walker only during the last couple of years of her life. Her mind remained sharp, and she could readily engage in conversations about politics, the stock market, and memories of “The Cliff.” She valued her independence, had pride in her appearance, and knew how to wear a new pair of shoes with heels.

Phyllis is survived by her brother, William (Bill) Eckersell and his wife, Irene; her daughter, Marcia; and her son, Buz. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Les, and her daughter, Susan.

Throughout her later years, Phyllis received wonderful care from her children, friends and neighbors who were an important part of her life. In Salt Lake City, the staff at Legacy Village of Sugar House went above and beyond in their care. They often remarked that their visits with Phyllis enriched their own lives as much as they hoped to enrich hers.

Phyllis and her family extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for her, especially Brittany, Piper, Michelle, and Larry at Legacy Village of Sugar House; and Jenna, Sophie, Blanca, and Matt with CNS Hospice. Their kindness, compassion, and dedication brought comfort and joy to Phyllis and her family. Plus her dining room friends, Drew and Chris, who assisted her. Phyllis and family would like to commend the great medical care at Madsen Clinic, Dr. Natalie Sanders, the Moran Eye Center, and Dr. Zabriskie and staff.

Phyllis was laid to rest beside Les at the Rexburg Cemetery in a private family ceremony, along with her beloved dog, Bif.