News Summary
Phyllis Scruggs-Soldo, a cherished figure in the Coronado community and a successful entrepreneur, passed away after a lengthy battle with leukemia. She was an inspiration to many, having contributed significantly through her personal and professional life. With her roots in Coronado, Phyllis touched countless lives and will be honored at a celebration of her life in September. Her family remembers her vibrant spirit and community involvement, leaving behind a legacy filled with love and compassion.
Coronado, California – Phyllis Scruggs-Soldo, a beloved community member and successful businesswoman, passed away on June 23, 2025, at the age of 84, following a prolonged battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Her death has left a significant void in the lives of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched throughout her life.
Born on October 2, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phyllis was the second of three children born to Janice Twilla Saunders and Tremont Herschel Scruggs. Raised in Coronado, California, she attended Coronado Elementary School, Coronado Junior High School, and graduated from Coronado High School in the Class of 1959. While she briefly pursued higher education at Oklahoma State College, she returned home to Coronado at her mother’s insistence.
Phyllis had two children, Lisa and David, from her first marriage, which ended in divorce. She later worked as a real estate agent in Coronado before moving into the cosmetic industry as a representative for Chanel. In 1977, she made a significant move to Scottsdale, Arizona, where she established her own appraisal business. Phyllis’s life took a joyful turn in 1992 when she met Nicholas Soldo, whom she later married in 1995. Together, they successfully operated the Arizona Vein Institute until Nicholas’s retirement in 2012.
In addition to her professional achievements, Phyllis was known for her active involvement in the Coronado community, particularly at Sacred Heart Church, where she participated in various church functions. Passionate about the outdoors, she enjoyed snow skiing, power walking, golf, and horseback riding. Phyllis and Nicholas shared a deep love for horses, spending time riding their Arabian and Paint horses across the Arizona desert.
The couple made it a tradition to celebrate their love every Thursday evening at Chez Loma Restaurant, enjoying their favorite wine and meals in good company. Recognized for her beauty and charisma, Phyllis had a vibrant youth, which included competing in beauty pageants and serving as head majorette during her high school years.
Phyllis is survived by her husband Nicholas Soldo, daughter Lisa Williamson (who is married to Dan) of Park City, Utah, son David (married to Cheryl) of Lander, Wyoming, along with 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren who affectionately referred to her as “Nana.” She is also survived by her younger brother Howard and was predeceased by her older brother Tremont.
In tribute to Phyllis’s memory, she will be interred at El Camino Mortuary in San Diego beside her family members and beloved dogs. A celebration of life will be held on September 13 at Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana, a restaurant that was one of her favorites and where family and close friends will gather to honor her legacy.
The family requests that contributions be made in her memory to DeTommaso Dog Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs from Baja California. Donations can be made via email at CONTACT@TDDOGS.ORG or through a specific donation link provided by the organization.
Phyllis Scruggs-Soldo will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, strong community involvement, and the love she shared with those around her. Her legacy continues through her family and the many lives she influenced during her time.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: Phyllis Scruggs-Soldo, 1940-2025
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- AZCentral: Obituaries
- Google Search: Phyllis Scruggs-Soldo
- Coronado Times: Katleen Dugas on The Voice France
- Google Scholar: Coronado California
- Coronado Times: Rent and Navy Housing Allowance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coronado
- Coronado Times: Roller Rink at The Del
- Google News: Coronado California
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
