Phyllis Frances Cudmore

AUGUSTA – Phyllis Frances Cudmore, 77, died unexpectedly at her home on Monday, July 5, 2021. She was born in Peabody, Mass. on April 18, 1944, one of seven children to Cecile (Hebert) O’Donnell.Phyllis grew up and attended Bishop Fenwick High School in Massachusetts. Following high school, she enlisted in the United States Navy where she served proudly for four years as a radar, sonar and cryptographic repair specialist. Following her service in the Navy, she enlisted in the United States Army Reserves, where she served for 24 years as a leader and trainer of solders as a Drill Sergeant and Training NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) before retiring as a Master Sergeant. In her civilian career Phyllis traveled to various hospitals fixing radiology equipment before becoming a mechanical engineer. Phyllis was employed by various defense contractors and worked on projects ranging anywhere from radar systems to the F22 Raptor. After retiring from the Army in her 50’s, Phyllis went back to school at the Granite State College to become a therapist. She started her own practice focusing on assisting individuals with gender identity dysphoria.She was a member of the American Legion Post #2 of Augusta, where she served briefly as Commander and, presently, as 2nd Vice Commander. She was also a member of the Unitarian Universalist Community Church in Augusta. Phyllis was an avid outdoors person who enjoyed activities such as motorcycling, kayaking, hunting and fishing with friends and family. She loved conducting target practice at the Capitol City Gun Club and attending Pow Wows, which enabled her to embrace her Native American heritage. She was extremely generous with her time, volunteering in communities’ events, and her entire life she spent placing her country, family and friends before herself.Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Robert and Martin O’Donnell, and a sister, Laurell O’Donnell.She is survived by her two sons P. Jonathon Cudmore of Galesville, Wisc.. and William Michael Cudmore of Litchfield, N.H.; one brother, Neil O’Donnell of New Hampshire; four sisters Barbara Sullivan of Wisconsin, Ellen O’Donnell of Florida, Patricia Warren of Massachusetts and Chloe Hills of Fayette, Maine; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. A memorial service will take place this fall.Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St., Augusta, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at http://www.familyfirstfh.com