Phyllis Sue Rote

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phyllis Sue Rote, or Babe as her friends and family called her. Babe was born May 13, 1931, and passed away on June 25, 2025, peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was 94 years old. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM at the First Christian Church, 1224 Lucinda St, Perry, IA on Saturday, July 12, 2025, with visitation one hour prior beginning at 1:00 PM. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Born to Charles Harlan Bales and Susie Mable Nye, she quickly distinguished herself as someone of immense character and profound kindness. Every chapter of her life contributed to a legacy of unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. Babe’s passions were as diverse as her interests from traveling with her husband and sister to all 50 states at least once, camping and spending time with her family and friends.

Babe’s professional life always consisted of caring for others. Babe spent at least 15 years working at the Dallas County Hospital where she held different roles. During the time she worked there, her colleagues and peers recall her humanity and her ability to lead with compassion and vision.

More than her achievements, it was her heart that left the most indelible mark. Babe was generous with her time and unwavering support. She was a trusted confidant to many, whether it was volunteering at local charities or fostering over 80 children. Her acts of kindness were countless. She lived her life according to the principle that true wealth lies in the richness of human connection.

Family was the cornerstone of her life. Proceeding Babe in death were her loving husband of 73 years, Dean Rote; son, Bill Rote; son in law, Harvey Grabill; grandson, Dean Grabill; great grandson, Cody Putney; siblings, Kent Brundage, Virginia Fenimore, and Donna Sterett.

Babe is survived by her 6 children, Linda Grabill, Kathyrn Sheehy, Tom Rote, Sandy Huggins, Bev (Russ) Ozbun and Matt Rote. Babe is also survived by 9 grandchildren, Julie Kinkennon, Terri Putney (Joe), Micheal Sheehy, Scott Sheehy (Jessica), Brian Rote, Alison Rote, Melissa Rote, Haylee Rote, Bobby Culp (Robbi); 17 great grandchildren, Nicole Kinkennon-Bettis, Kylie Mendoza (Sergio Ibanez), Brooke Carter (Tyler), Hollywood Grabill, Chad Culp (Jordyn), Lisa Culp (Clint Mahon), Jeff Culp (Kaiti), Brenten Sheehy-Graves, Cassandra Putney, Sadee Dixon (Gary), Aaliyah Rivera-Rote, Luke Rote-Ozbun, Gatlin Rote-Ozbun, Lenin Rote-Ozbun, Jordan Rote- Ozbun, Ignacio Rote-Ozbun; 15 great-great grandchildren, Emma Bettis, Ian Ibanez, Camila Ibanez, Scarlet Culp, Tayln Hopkins, Maverick Culp, Kingston Culp, Deacon Schrek, Wayne Mahon, Delanie Culp, Dean Culp, Holden Carter, Greyson Grabill, Charlie Putney-Wiles, and Wyatt Wiles.

As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived. Each memory serves as a reminder of the joy and love she brought into this world. In her honor, let us strive to embody the qualities she held dear: kindness, perseverance, and the courage to live life fully.