Phyllis Church Hmielewski

She was born Phyllis Evelyn Church to Laura Farrell Church and Philip Church of Essex, CT on December 11, 1927. Phyllis is preceded in death by her brother, Arthur W. Church of Niantic, CT.

Phyllis married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Charles Lawrence Hmielewski in 1949 and they spent 54 wonderful married years together, raising their three children in Old Saybrook, CT. Phyllis was a most devoted wife, mother and grand-mother. Family was everything to Phyllis, it brought such joy to her life.

Upon retiring, Phyllis and Charlie moved to Vero Beach, FL to be near their children and grandchildren and live in their dream home on the water with everyone gathered together. They then began their mutual love of traveling the country in their motorhome, visiting family and friends and wandering where their hearts led them - including their bucket list journey to Alaska. Sadly, Charlie preceded Phyllis in death in 2004.

Phyllis remained in Vero Beach, close to her sons and their families until 2016, when her eldest son, Chuck, and wife, Sharon, moved from Vero Beach to retire in the mountains of NC - and brought Mom along with them. Phyllis completely fell in love with the mountains as well and relished over eight happy years there.

Phyllis is survived by: Daughter Helen Smith (Joel, deceased) of Virginia; Son Charles P. Hmielewski (Sharon) of Banner Elk, North Carolina; Son Paul R. Hmielewski of Florida.

Also seven grandchildren: Daryl and Hilary Smith, Steven Frank, Nicole and Eric Hmielewski and Holly and Heather Hmielewski, as well as nine great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

She will also be greatly missed by numerous, dearly loved nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date and a private interment at the historic Cypress Cemetery on the point in Old Saybrook, CT.

Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Phyllis C. Hmielewski.