Phyllis Joyce Christian, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of the Delmar community, passed away peacefully at home in Delmar on May 14, 2026. She was 85.

Born on July 8, 1940, at her family home on Fillmore Street in Salisbury, Maryland, Phyllis was the daughter of the late Phillip and Pearl Farlow. She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband, Robert Christian, Sr., with whom she shared 52 wonderful years of marriage, and by her sister, Peggy Nichols.

Phyllis is survived by her loving son, Robert Christian (Maggie) of Baltimore; her grandchildren, Benjamin Christian (Michelle) of Woodbine, Stephanie Tyler (Dave) of Centreville, Harrison Christian (Ashley) of Denton, and Jonathan Christian (Emily) of Chestertown; four great-grandchildren; Robbie, Ava, Lilianna, Rosemary, and one great-great-granddaughter, Isla. She is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews.

A lifelong horsewoman, Phyllis was deeply involved in the standardbred racing community as a longtime owner and trainer. She was a proud member of the Maryland Standardbred Breeders Association, the Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners’ Association, and the United States Trotting Association. Her passion for horses and dedication to the sport were defining parts of her life and brought her immense joy.

In addition to her work in harness racing, Phyllis was employed at Downtown Alley in Bridgeville, Delaware, and was well known for her keen eye and love of antiques as both a buyer and seller.

Phyllis was a longtime and faithful member of All Saints Episcopal Church, where her faith and fellowship were important cornerstones of her life.

She will be remembered for her independent spirit, hardworking nature, and deep love for her family, friends, and animals. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.

A graveside service celebrating Phyllis’s life will be held Wednesday, May 20th at 10am, at the Wicomico Memorial Park.

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar.