09/02/2026
Graceland University mourns the loss of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who passed on Sept. 1, 2026.
A 1965 graduate of Graceland College, O’Daniels remained dedicated to Graceland for nearly 40 years. She taught in Health and Movement Science, served as division head, led students to Honduras for 14 years through Graceland's former Winter Term, and supported athletics as the university's Faculty Athletics Representative to the NAIA.
“Phyllis had an extraordinary commitment to Graceland and to our students. She cared deeply about teaching and helping students succeed, and she brought that same commitment to her work with Graceland Athletics."
— James Geiselman, DC, Chair, Division of Science, Math, and Technology
Her commitment to students, teaching, and Graceland left a lasting impact across the university and generations of Yellowjackets. We are grateful for her decades of service and the legacy she leaves at Graceland.
Lamoni, IA – Graceland University mourns the passing of Professor Emerita Dr. Phyllis O’Daniels, who died Sept. 1, 2026. An alumna, longtime faculty member and university leader, O’Daniels dedicated nearly...
