Connie Joy Phillips (Lyon) Newcomer passed away at the age of 77 in Pullman, Washington on March 29th, 2024.  She was born on September 5th, 1946 to Conrad and Edna Faye Phillips in Richland, WA.  Connie Joy passed peacefully during the night while surrounded by loved ones and her wonderful caregivers from a short bout with cancer.

Connie Joy married Richard (Dick) Lyon in 1965.  The couple later divorced but remained as friends until Dick's passing in 2018.  They shared two children together, Josh and Jess.

Connie Joy graduated from Columbia High School in Richland, WA in 1964 and then received her degree from Western Washington University in 1968.

She then spent 40 years in public education teaching and counseling in various school districts throughout Washington and Idaho as well as working for governmental agencies in both states.  She also had a small stint as a business owner in McCall, ID, where she was the owner of the Fabric Hutch.  Connie Joy spent the last 20 years in Spokane, Washington where she resided upon retirement until she moved to Pullman in February 2023.

Connie Joy loved spending quality time with her family and friends.  She also had a passion for sewing and quilting.  In her younger years, she enjoyed camping trips and backpacking with friends and family along the Washington coast and Cascade Mountains.

Faith and family were foremost in her life.  Connie Joy spent many years playing the piano and organ for church services as well as attending bible study.  She also sincerely loved spending time with her four grandchildren and would regularly travel to spend time with them.

She is survived by her brother W. R. Phillips of Tri Cities, WA, her son, Joshua Lyon (Lisa) of Loveland, CO, daughter Jessica Wilund (Travis) of Pullman, WA, and her four grandchildren: Ashton and Addyson Lyon, and Kamden and Kaylee Wilund.

The family would like to thank her caregivers, Sherry and Nii Ankrah, Gentiva hospice nurse Rachael, Gentiva hospice CNA Kelli and all her wonderful friends and loved ones who have provided so much love and support through the years.

A celebration of life will be held at Hamblen Park Presbyterian Church in Spokane, Washington on Saturday, April 20th at 11:00am, with a reception to follow.

Connie Joy was a bright light to so many and we hope her light continues to shine through all who knew and loved her!

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be directed to Hamblen Park Presbyterian Church, in Spokane, WA, where she was an active member for many years.