Phyllis Jo Shahen (Walker), 75, passed away in her home in Turlock on March 3, 2024. She was surrounded by her loving family. She joins her beloved husband of 32 years, Thomas “Lee” Shahen (1946-2003) and her adored daughter, Mrs. Kelly Michelle (Shahen) Bakas (1977-2022).

Phyllis, also known as P.J., Peach, and Phyllis Jo, was born in Memphis, Tennessee on February 24, 1949. She was the daughter of John E. Walker and Ann Mantely. Phyllis and Lee were married on September 25, 1971 in Las Vegas, Nevada and moved to Turlock in 1976. Lee meant everything to Phyllis. In her own words to Lee, Phyllis wrote: “Lee, my best friend, the love of my life, your love and laughter are in our hearts forever.”

Her fun-loving, generous spirit and exuberant smile touched all those who knew her. She was brave in times of loss and a fiercely loyal friend. She loved listening and singing along to country music, spending time with family and the many friends that had become family, and collecting nick-nacks, especially “angels.” Phyllis worked as a licensed optician and an assistant manager. She was an active member of the Cornerstone Covenant Church in Turlock. She especially loved working with the children, attending Bible Study, and sharing the deep friendships she made there.

Phyllis is survived by: her son Marcus Lee Shahen and daughter-in-law Shelley Shahen (Hamilton); her son Troy Lee Shahen; her son-in-law Peter Bakas; and her grandchildren Dylan Patrick McBride, Tyler Cristopher Drewry, Mrs. Brooke Taylor Arbaugh, Abigail Paige Lee Shahen, and Zoe, Alex, Noah and Maya Bakas.

There will be a graveside gathering at Turlock Memorial Park on March 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis’ name to the Cornerstone Covenant Church, 4105 Crowell Road, Turlock, CA (209-667-6768) or online at: https://www.cornerstonecov.org