Phyllis Goodfriend

Phyllis Goodfriend, 87, of the Upper West Side of New York City, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, leaving behind sadness but many cherished memories. Phyllis was born on November 27, 1938, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to the late Herbert and Helen Poresky.

After graduating from high school, Phyllis moved to New York City, where she spent most of her adult life in Manhattan. She married the late James Goodfriend in January 1960, and together they began their family in Jamaica Estates, Queens. After 20 years of marriage, Phyllis returned to Manhattan, eventually settling in the Upper West Side, which remained her beloved home until her passing.

Phyllis was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She joyfully embraced her role as “Nana” to her three granddaughters and delighted in sharing with them her passion for reading, exploring, and the arts, along with her deep appreciation for New York City and its rich, vibrant culture. She possessed a quiet strength and was kind, courageous, and adventurous, always determined to live life on her own terms. An avid reader and enthusiastic walker, she was also an intrepid traveler who carefully documented her journeys through photographs and stories to share with family and friends.

Phyllis attended Queens College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition. Throughout her career in New York City, she held several positions, most notably working as an IT consultant until her retirement. She was especially proud of her volunteer work over many years with Big Apple Greeters, where she welcomed visitors from around the world and introduced them to the city she loved through her walking tours, and with New York Cares, where she assisted local residents with income tax preparation.

Phyllis is survived by her beloved children, Lisa Goodfriend (Bill Kerrigan) and David Goodfriend (Lynda Goodfriend); her three granddaughters, Gabriela, Emma, and Julia Goodfriend; her brothers, Danny Poresky and Paul Poresky; and her nieces and nephews, Sandi, Philip, Makena, and Aaron. She was predeceased by her parents Herbert and Helen Poresky, and her sister Louise Poresky.

Phyllis will be deeply missed. She lived a long, happy, and full life, traveling the world and walking the streets of her beloved city, remaining active and engaged until the end. Her family is comforted by the beautiful memories she leaves behind, a blessing they will forever treasure.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date