Phyllis B Hutchinson

Phyllis Romell Bassard Hutchinson, a devoted public servant, cherished mother, and lifelong advocate for community, education, and faith, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025. Born on January 6, 1941, in Columbia, South Carolina, Phyllis was the youngest of seven children born to John S. Bassard, Sr. and Gladys B. Bassard. She received her early education in the Richland County School System and graduated in 1958 from the historic Booker T. Washington High School. A standout student, Phyllis was frequently recognized for her academic achievement, civic engagement, and steadfast school spirit—devotion she maintained throughout her life. She went on to pursue a business degree at the esteemed Cortez Peters Business School in Washington, D.C., a decision that laid the foundation for a long and distinguished career in federal service. Her professional journey included key roles with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and most prominently, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. From 1969 until her retirement in 1997, Phyllis served as a GS-9 Estate Analyst, advocating for veterans with passion and diligence. She led workshops, served on policy-shaping committees, and worked relentlessly to improve the lives of those who had served their country. A respected leader and mentor, Phyllis held positions such as President of the American Business Women’s Association and Federal Women’s Program Coordinator in 1981—roles that exemplified her commitment to empowerment, equity, and public service. Faith remained the cornerstone of Phyllis’s life. Baptized in 1952 at Chapelle Memorial AME Church, she later joined St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church with her mother and siblings in 1959. In 1981, she found her spiritual home in the Lutheran Church, where she was confirmed and became a vibrant member of the congregation. Her faith journey included active participation at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, and later, Ascension Lutheran Church in Columbia. Even as her health waned, she remained deeply connected—offering encouragement, prayer, and steadfast support to her church family. Phyllis was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John and Gladys Bassard; her former husband, Charles T. Hutchinson, Jr.; her children, Renee M. Hutchinson and Troy S. Hutchinson; and her siblings, Breman Bassard, John Bassard, Jr., Theresa B. Taylor, Knowlton Bassard, and James Bassard. She leaves behind a loving legacy through her daughter, Janine H. Greene (Howard); her brother, Alphonso B. Bassard (Laverne); her “adopted” son, Dr. Keith Alford; and five devoted grandchildren: Monae Hutchinson (Houston), Toure M. Greene (Columbia), Zakee Robinson (Ft. Walton), Tierra Robinson (Irmo), and Arthur Wright (Norfolk). She is also survived by four great-grandchildren—Kevieghn, Chase, Ziamara, and Carson—as well as the extended Hutchinson family of Camden, NJ, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Phyllis will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her life of service, and the quiet strength with which she uplifted everyone around her. Her compassion, integrity, and enduring love for family and community will remain an inspiration to all who knew her.

Phyllis B Hutchinson

January 6, 1941 - June 24, 2025