She was born March 26, 1952, in Austin, to Mailien and Alton Neidig.

Phyllis grew up in Elgin, Texas, developing a lifelong love of learning and family traditions. After graduating as valedictorian of the Elgin High School class of 1970, Phyllis would marry the salutatorian and love of her life, Ralph, and make her home in New Braunfels. Together, over the last 52 years, Phyllis and Ralph would foster faith and love.

Phyllis and Ralph raised two sons, Matt and Brian. Phyllis was a devoted mother to her sons and took immense pride in her role as a grandmother. Her four grandchildren were at the core of everything she did.

Beyond her family, Phyllis cared for people everywhere. She spent 25 years as a preschool teacher at St. Paul Lutheran in New Braunfels, nurturing future generations. In her free time, Phyllis enjoyed reading, watching the Longhorns and Astros and collecting thimbles. She was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and had a green thumb, regularly insisting on how her husband Ralph cared for her plants and flowers. Phyllis loved visiting the outdoors, particularly Colorado, where she would routinely lose track of time staring at the mountains and streams.

Her greatest hobby and joy were undoubtedly caring for her grandchildren. She leaves a lasting legacy of family, dedication and love.

Phyllis is survived by her husband, Ralph Behrend; mother, Mailien Neidig; sons, Matthew Behrend and wife Josie, along with their children Alton and Liliana, and Brian Behrend and wife Christina, along with their daughters Ella and Charli; brothers, Harlan Neidig and wife Valarie, Ronnie Neidig and wife Rebecca, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Alton Neidig.

It is with the utmost gratitude that we say thank you to each person who visited, each doctor and nurse that cared for her during her battle with cancer, her hospice care team and all her friends who called to check in on her. Phyllis never faltered in her love for her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider making a memorial donation to St. Paul Lutheran Church in New Braunfels or Texas Lutheran University’s Nursing Program, as many TLU nurses cared for her while she was at Resolute Hospital this year.

To leave a message for the family, please visit luxfhcares. com and select obituaries.