Phyllis J Buffaloe

Phyllis Jean Ingalls Buffaloe, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went to meet her Heavenly Father on December 1, 2024, at the age of 77. She left this earth surrounded in love with her husband and five children at her side.

Phyllis was born on October 15, 1947, in Inglewood, California, to James and Helen Ingalls, but spent most of her youth on her family farm in Twin Falls, Idaho, with her brother James (Jim). As a young girl, Phyllis loved life on the farm and living with the animals. After graduating from Twin Falls High School, Phyllis moved to Pocatello, Idaho to attend Idaho State University. It was during this time at ISU that she met her future husband, Darrell Buffaloe, in a speech class when she sat in the wrong seat, and the rest was history. Darrell and Phyllis were married on August 27, 1966, and later sealed their marriage in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake Temple. Their first child was born the following year, and over the next 11 years, four more children followed as they built a life in Pocatello, Idaho.

Phyllis was the epitome of a kind and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She poured her heart into her family, nurturing her five children - Richard (Rick), Michael (Mike), Emily, Grant, and Karen - while instilling in them the values of faith and laughter. Her home was always filled with warmth, as she masterfully combined her love for home decorating with her unique wit and sense of humor. Later, when her 21 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren came along, she filled her new roles with pride and passed on the same love, faith, and laughter to each of them as well. Phyllis was known as someone her family could always call or visit and she would be happy to talk together and offer support.

Phyllis was a masterful seamstress with a creative flair and she enjoyed expressing herself through her handcrafted projects. Whether it was a beautiful quilt, a detailed cross-stitch, or a unique craft, her creations are a testament to her dedication and talent. Her handmade items will be family heirloom treasures for generations to come. This passion and creativity fueled her profession and she worked for several years as a quilt maker in The Quilt Shop in Pocatello. 

Phyllis could also regularly be found reading a book, doing a puzzle, or tuning into her daily soap opera program. She and Darrell enjoyed their nightly routine of turning the TV on at 9:00 PM on the dot and watching their shows together before heading to bed. These hobbies were also complimented by a love of travel. When Darrell retired, the couple moved from Pocatello to Twin Falls, Idaho, then to St. George, Utah, and then settled back in Twin Falls. During these retirement years, Phyllis and Darrell went on many vacations, trips, and cruises where they made treasured memories of exploring new places. When they were not traveling, they were often visited by their family and friends.

Though she has left this earth, Phyllis' spirit remains forever alive in the hearts of her loving husband, Darrell Buffaloe, her children Richard (Kathy) Buffaloe of Las Vegas, NV, Michael (Judith) Buffaloe of Pocatello, ID, Emily (Kim) Peterson of Pocatello, ID, Grant (Kristen) Buffaloe of Portland, OR, and Karen (Brad) Drayton of Tooele, UT, as well as her brother James (Sondra) Ingalls of Twin Falls, ID. She will also be forever lovingly remembered by her 21 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Phyllis was preceded in death by her father, James Ingalls; mother, Helen Ingalls; father-in-law, Harry Buffaloe; mother-in-law, Afton Buffaloe; and brother-in-law, Vern Buffaloe.

Phyllis will forever be remembered by her family as a beloved matriarch whose spirit touched the lives of all who had the privilege of loving her. Her humor and laughter are etched in the memories she created with her loved ones, and her kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Friends and family are welcome to celebrate Phyllis' blessed life during a Graveside Service at Sunset Memorial Park in Twin Falls, Idaho. This service will be held on December 6, 2024, beginning at 10:00 AM

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the "Guestbook" section below.