Phyllis Kooris

Devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, of Canton, formerly of Newton, Falmouth, and Boynton Beach, FL, died peacefully on January 16th, after a brief illness. The daughter of the late Eli and Fannie Cohen, she was predeceased by her loving husband, Joseph Kooris and her sister, Eileen Nagler. Phyllis was an eternal optimist, even during the difficult isolation of Covid. Her humor, wit, warmth, and generosity were appreciated by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. A nature lover and longtime Audubon Society member, she enjoyed bird watching and nature walks on Cape Cod and the Florida Everglades. A superb baker and cook, she taught classes in Chinese cooking at the Needham Y and loved entertaining for family and friends. Well into her nineties she enjoyed her vodka every evening, and could be found listening to Leonard Cohen, Johnny Cash, or Willie Nelson. She stayed up late faithfully to watch the Daily Show and Saturday Night Live. An avid reader, she was particularly fond of the novels of Wallace Stegner and the humor of Dave Barry. Phyllis will be remembered as a devoted and loving wife, mother, and friend. She lived her life with gratitude and was never shy about openly expressing her love and affection for others. She leaves her sister Madeline O'Shea, her children Geoffrey Kooris (Melanie), Shelley Kooris, and Emily Kooris (Stephen Kirsch). She also leaves her beloved grandchildren, Sarah Kooris Siebold (Karim Wahba) and David Kooris (Jessica) , as well as her four adored great granddaughters: Michaela, Fina, Lena, and Liora. Phyllis will also be greatly missed by her loyal granddog, Abe. Gifts in her memory may be made to the Orchard Cove Scholarship Fund, 1 Del Pond Drive, Canton, MA 02021. Services will be private.