Phyllis Howell Epps passed away on August 22, 2017. She was born on July 14, 1956 in Portsmouth, VA to the late Mary E. and Earnest T. Howell, Sr.  After graduating from I.C. Norcom High School in 1974, Phyllis pursued her education further by earning a B.S. degree at Norfolk State University.  She was predeceased by her husband Zonnie Epps, who brought much love and happiness into her life in the short time they shared together.

Phyllis worked as a Purchasing Agent for the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, VA. She retired in July 2016 with 33 years of service.  Because of her outgoing personality, she was well loved by so many people.

Phyllis was a strong and successful woman who built a good life for herself and her daughter always working hard.  She had excellent work ethics, always there when you needed her, going over and beyond to help others.  She was loving, caring and kind to her many friends, family and associates, however, you never had to wonder how she felt about a situation because Phyllis spoke her mind.

Phyllis is survived by her loving daughter, Tracie E. Howell; two brothers, Melvin “Mike” Howell and Ernest “Chippy” T. Howell, Jr. (Sherry); three sisters, Ernestine Poittilo (Jeremiah), Fannie Howell and Vernell Howell Jones; several aunts and uncles, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, and friends.
A wake will be held at Corprew Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 30, 2017, from 4 pm to 7 pm. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2017, 11 am at Mt. Hermon Baptist Temple, 2901 London Blvd., Portsmouth, VA 23707.  Interment will be in Olive Branch Cemetery, 2 CPL J M Williams Ave., Portsmouth, VA 23701.