Phyllis Schneider

She lived a very long and full life of over 96 years. Phyllis loved people and the people in her life. She lived life to the fullest. She was married to Louis for over 70 years until he predeceased her four years ago in 2018. And no, that is not a typo – their marriage was for 70 Years. Very few couples ever reach that milestone. Phyllis had two sons, Jeff and Lee who were close to her for her entire life and remained close to her until her passing. Phyllis had 5 Grandchildren and 2 Great-grandchildren, all of whom she was very proud of and brought her joy.

Phyllis was known for her great wit and intellect. She was also blessed with great natural energy and beauty. She was an irrepressible optimist. She had a great smile and she brought life and enthusiasm wherever she went. Phyllis was truly one of those “super-smart” people that you don’t meet every day. And good luck to you if you ever tried to fool her. That would not go over well. Phyllis had a great appetite for life and was one who was truly ‘larger than life.’

Phyllis was born to humble origins in New York City in 1926. Nothing was handed to her. She had to earn whatever she was to obtain in her life. And earn she did, starting with earning both Bachelor’s degree in Teaching from Hunter College and then a Master’s degrees from Columbia University in New York. Remember that this was at a time when most women did not attend college and even fewer had careers.

Phyllis went on to teach elementary school in the New York City Public schools for over 30 years. She enriched the lives of hundreds of young people, whom she encouraged to pursue education, obtain knowledge and improve their lives. I know because I am one of them. She always pushed education, self-improvement and reaching your full potential. She made sure to do whatever she could to make all the opportunities available to you – all you had to do was go ahead and take them – And of course be willing to do all the work that was required. She always encouraged and supported her kids and her loved ones. She made sure you knew she was in your corner. All you had to do was to believe in yourself.

Phyllis was a loving Wife and Mother and Grandmother. After retirement, both she and Louis moved from New York to Florida where they were able to share time with both their sons.

Phyllis prided herself on staying active and engaged. She always took care of herself and maintained her appearance. She often surprised people as she looked 20 years younger than her real age. No one could believe she was in her 90s. She stayed active and sharp to the end and continued to enjoy her life and the people in it. She was an inspiration to others with her huge smile, big voice and big heart. She had great generosity, kindness and sensitivity, and she was always willing to listen and offer her advice to others.

So My Dearest Phyllis -- You performed all of your many roles with great care, attention and distinction – you were truly a great Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Friend and Teacher. You nurtured and raised a Great Family. In short, you were a Huge Success!

You will be missed by all of those who you touched. Thank you for your love, affection, support and guidance. You made each of our lives better with your presence and you will remain alive in our hearts and minds forever.Congratulations on a life well lived – And God Bless you Phyllis as you return to meet your Loving Husband, “Lou”! We are so fortunate to have had you both for all these years!