Eminent Homemaker
County: Clay
Phyllis Sternquist is best known for giving her time, talent, and leadership skills within the communities in which she has lived. She has been involved in 4-H, Extension Club, Clay County Fair Board, 4-H Scholarship and Trust Fund Board, Clay County Farm Bureau, Dalesburg Lutheran church and family life.
Sternquist worked at McKennan Hospital until marriage, and then assisted her husband Sheridan in farming. In 1984, she worked full time for Willson Florist in Vermillion for three years. After hip problems, Sternquist was given the opportunity to work for the South Dakota First Judicial System as deputy clerk of courts in Vermillion. She worked there for nine years.
Sternquist currently serves on the Clay County Youth Trust Board which provides scholarships for students in Clay County. She currently serves and has served on boards and committees in the Lutheran women conference and a state Lutheran board. She has also graced many events in the community with flowers from her home flower shop.
In 1963, Sternquist graduated from Beresford High School before pursuing a degree as a licensed practical nurse in Sioux Falls from The Presentation Sisters.
Phyllis and her husband have three children, one with a degree from SDSU.