Phyllis Ann Cantini

Phyllis Ann Cantini, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, passed on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the age of 88. Phyllis devoted her life to education as a high school math teacher, retiring from the Walled Lake School District after 30 years of service. She shaped the lives of countless students over the decades. Phyllis had a gift for connecting with young people, inspiring them not only to learn, but to believe in themselves. Her classroom was a place of encouragement, and lasting impact.

Outside her career, Phyllis found great happiness in the simple and beautiful moments of life. She was an avid gardener earning the title of Master Gardener, tending to her flowers with patience and pride. Phyllis was awarded ribbons and prizes for her beautiful day lilies. Her passion for gardening produced amazing hostas, irises, and various other perennials and gorgeous gardens. She enjoyed touring gardens with her day lily groups throughout the summers. She adored animals and always had a soft spot for pets. Phyllis enjoyed her weekly lunches with her friends at the Richardson Center.

Phyllis cherished her role as a mom, grandma and great-grandmother or GiGi as her great-grand kids called her. Time spent with her family brought her immense joy, and she filled their lives with warmth, wisdom and unconditional love. Whether it was cheering them on, or simply being present, she made each moment special.

She could often be seen riding her three-wheel bike around her neighborhood with a smile and her beloved Chihuahua, Cindy, in the basket. Phyllis also had a passion for travel, and embracing new experiences along the way. Her love for beauty extended to her collection of butterflies, each one a reflection of her bright and cheery nature.

A devoted football fan, Phyllis cheered faithfully for the Detroit Lions and University of Michigan, celebrating every victory and standing by her teams through every season.

Beloved wife of the late Jim; loving mother of Kendra (Kelan) Pond, Keena (Jon) Collins, Julie Cantini; grandma of Taylor (Joe) Leone, Tanner Pond, Logan (Amber) Collins, Landon Collins, Jennifer (Tim Blackford III) Luke and Emily Endebrock; GiGi to Joelle, Peyton, Sklyer, Tucker, Jacey, Janie. She also leaves behind her faithful Chihuahua Cindy, and her cat Susie.

The Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at the Union Lake Chapel of the Elton Black and Son Funeral Home, 1233 Union Lake Rd., White Lake, MI 48386. Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm and on Thursday from 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 4330 W. 12 Mile Rd., Novi, MI

Memorial donations may be made to

Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center

or Richardson Community Senior Center

*To honor Phyllis and her love of flowers and butterflies the family will be wearing vibrant colors and welcome guests to do the same.