Phyllis Tunks: My Hero

Street Fair B&BCraig Tunks 

When I think about the people who have shaped my life the most, my mom, Phyllis Tunks, stands at the center. Her love, patience, and unwavering support have been constants throughout my life, teaching me lessons I carry daily. She has been my teacher, my rock, and my cheerleader. She is one of my heroes.

My bond with my Mom started at the very edges of my memory. I didn’t want to be there when I was first sent to preschool. I cried for days because I couldn’t bear the thought of being away from home and from her. Rather than forcing me to stay, she made the incredible decision to stop working so she could stay home and raise me. She became my first teacher, patiently teaching me the basics needed to succeed in school. Her sacrifice in those early years was the first of many, always ensuring I had what I needed to feel loved and supported.

My mom’s devotion to my upbringing never wavered as I grew up. She was deeply involved in my life, especially through her participation in the PTA at my schools. She didn’t just attend meetings—she was the driving force behind many activities and events that made my childhood special. Whether chaperoning field trips, organizing luncheons, or helping with school activities, she poured her heart into ensuring everything was perfect. She had an uncanny ability to make every experience memorable. I still remember her helping me create school projects that stood out—not because they were the flashiest, but because they reflected the care and effort she put into everything she touched.

Birthdays were another area where her creativity and dedication shone brightly. She made a custom birthday cake every year, designed just for me. She didn’t stop at the cake, though—she planned elaborate, unforgettable parties. Each birthday was a masterpiece of her imagination and love, from an Olympics-themed celebration to a roller-skating adventure to an amazing Super Friends party. Even when money was tight, she found ways to make my parties extraordinary, often crafting decorations and activities by hand. Those birthdays weren’t just celebrations but expressions of her commitment to making my childhood magical.

Beyond the big events, my mom taught me life skills and shared moments that became cherished memories. Some of my favorite times with her were in the kitchen. We spent countless hours cooking together, from homemade spaghetti and sauce to desserts like jelly roll cakes. She not only taught me how to cook, but she also encouraged me to be creative. I loved adding my twist to recipes, and even when she wasn’t sure anyone would like my changes, she supported me. Those moments in the kitchen weren’t just about making food—they were about building a bond, fostering creativity, and creating memories I still treasure. To this day, I love baking cookies with her, and the skills and love she instilled in me are things I carry into my kitchen.

Her care for me extended into every corner of my life. She was always there, especially when it came to my safety. On family trips to the beach, while my dad and I were body surfing, she stood vigil on the shore, always watching, ready to pull me out of the water if needed. Even though I was a great swimmer and she didn’t know how to swim then, her concern for my well-being was unwavering. That image of her standing there, scanning the waves, is a testament to the depth of her love and the lengths she went to protect me.

One of my favorite memories is her always at my swim meets, cheering me on from the stands. Her voice would rise above the crowd, calling my name, and her smile made me feel like the most important person in the world. But her support didn’t stop at cheering. She participated in the parent groups that planned every detail of these events, ensuring they were as perfect as possible. Whether organizing refreshments, coordinating schedules, or simply offering a helping hand, she gave her all to ensure everything went smoothly.

Craig TunksDPS GraduationMy mom’s influence went beyond encouragement and participation—she also instilled in me resilience and perseverance. I struggled with Spanish in school, but she never let me give up. She worked with me after school and in the evenings, teaching and encouraging me to keep trying. Even when I didn’t do well on tests, she stood by me, reminding me that progress matters more than perfection. Her patience and belief in me taught me the value of persistence, even when things feel difficult.

She was also there for me during the tough moments. I’ll never forget when I made a mistake as the yearbook editor in high school that caused one of my teachers to get in trouble. I felt overwhelmed with guilt and didn’t know how to handle it. My mom was there, just as she always was. She talked to me on the phone to calm me down, then left work early to come to the school and help me work through the situation. It was one of the countless times she showed me that no matter what I faced, I could count on her to be there, offering her guidance and unconditional love.

When I left home for college, our bond remained as strong as ever. I called home every Sunday and Wednesday for four years. In those days, when long-distance calls were charged by the minute, this was no small task. But those calls were a lifeline, a way to stay connected and feel her support, even from miles away. They reflected how important our relationship has always been to both of us.

As I navigate adulthood, my mom continues to be one of my greatest supporters. After buying a home and starting a business, she has always been by my side. She comes over to clean, helps me organize the store, and more jobs to ensure my success. Her selflessness and dedication know no bounds. Whether she’s stuffing bags for an event or offering her time to help in any way she can, she does it with the same love and care that have defined her my entire life.

Craig TunksB&B EventThrough everything she has done, my mom has taught me how to love unconditionally, appreciate others, and remain patient through life’s challenges. She has shown me that family is the foundation of everything and that it’s something to hold onto, no matter where life takes you. Her actions have shaped who I am, and her lessons have become the guiding principles of my life.

My mom is one of my heroes. Her love, sacrifices, and unwavering belief in me have given me the strength and confidence to be who I am today. I am endlessly grateful for her, the memories we’ve made, and the bond we share. She is a true inspiration, and I feel so lucky to call her my mom.