Phyllis Imogene (McKnight) Batra, 84, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed away in Katy, Texas on November 11, 2023. She was born in Olney, Illinois, on September 4, 1939, daughter of Murvin Bernell McKnight and Loyse Mildred Bateman, who were united in marriage on May 7, 1937.

She was a life-long member of the Church of the Nazarene and had special connections to Randolph Park Church of the Nazarene in Janesville, Wisconsin, Olivet Nazarene College, and Olney Church of the Nazarene in Illinois. Over the years she served as a Sunday School teacher as well as led the church quiz team competition.

As an educator, she left an indelible mark on young minds, fostering lasting connections by hosting foreign exchange students. Her global travels embraced diverse cultures, enriching her life with a broadened perspective. Amidst these adventures, Phyllis immersed herself in the art of letter writing, cherishing books, nurturing the earth as a gardener, and delighting in the flights of birds as an avid watcher.

She married Dr. Harish Batra on February 9, 1972 and is survived by their children Dinesh Batra, Mukta Khurana, Jason Batra (Zynthia) and Scott Batra, and her grandchildren Sonia Khurana, Neera Melwani, Dinesh Batra, Shanta Batra, Nick Rogers, Darwin Umanzor, India Batra, Austin Batra, and Sofia Batra and great-grandchildren Anika Melwani, Ziyan Melwani and Isabel Burrows. 

She is also survived by brother, John Millard McKnight and sister, Loyse Kaye Frisk.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Harish; parents, Murvin and Loyse McKnight; sisters, infant Shirley Ann McKnight and Brenda Sheryl Schrey and brother, Ronald Lee McKnight.

A remembrance honoring her life was held in Katy, Texas, at Schmidt Funeral Home Grand Parkway Chapel. Her final resting place in Katy Magnolia Cemetery befits a life adorned with profound dedication and boundless love.

Schmidt Funeral Home Grand Parkway Chapel, Katy, TX