Obituary of Phyllis Thevenin Forsyth

Phyllis Thevenin Forsyth passed away at the age of 88 on May 27, 2021 in Santa Cruz. Born January 11, 1933 in Medford, Oregon, She was raised in Sacramento, California by her Aunt Ida until she was ten years old. Then she moved to the Salt Lake City, Utah area where she lived until she returned to California, ending up in Santa Cruz at 21 years old in 1954. Affectionately known as “The Fish Lady,” she owned and operated the “Boat-to-You Fish Market” for 18 years. Fond memories continue to be shared by her family and the wide range of customers, commercial anglers, and the colorful cast of characters who frequented the Fish Market. In addition to her fish business, Phyllis also delighted adults and children alike at churches, schools, company picnics, Christmas events and children’s birthday parties with her entertaining clown and dog performances. Her business was named Tailwaggers.

Phyllis was a lady with a caring heart for all persons, and was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She served in many capacities with humility and compassion to those in need. Phyllis also enjoyed volunteering at the Grey Bears organization. She was greatly loved by all who knew her. 

Phyllis is survived by her son Howard L. Thevenin of Santa Cruz; her daughter-in-law Letha Thevenin, grandchildren Mindy Thevenin and Adam Thevenin, her brothers Allen D. Hardman and G. Dee Hardman, and her adult step-children Gordon Vaughn Forsyth, Karl James Forsyth, Janene Forsyth, and Heather Forsyth, along with many loving extended family members residing in California, Colorado and Utah.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her two husbands, Albert Thevenin and Gordon Forsyth, along with her sons Albert "Skip" Thevenin Jr.,  Burney "Butch" Thevenin, Kimberly "Kim" Thevenin, and step-son, Mark D. Forsyth. 

Friends and family will gather on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (220 Elk Street, Santa Cruz, 95060) beginning at 10:00 a.m. COVID-19 precautions will be observed. She will be laid to rest in a private family ceremony at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Santa Cruz.