Mildred Anne Baylis

BAYLIS, Mildred Anne, 73, of Spring Hill, FL passed peacefully at home on November 18, 2016. She was the devoted and beloved wife of Eugene for the past 43 years. Mil was born and raised in Newark, NJ. A natural teacher, she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Education at the College of Notre Dame, Maryland. She taught math and science in elementary school for several years. Later, she worked for the Essex County (NJ) Department of Welfare for more than 25 years, retiring as a supervisor. It was here that she met her future husband and where they were involved in the employees’ Union and its leadership. Mil lived a life devoted to helping others. This was her passion. Her faith was her guiding light. She was an untiring advocate for the homeless and disadvantaged. She was active in numerous Catholic and civic organizations and a leader in many, including the St. Vincent de Paul Society, literacy programs, and as a hospital volunteer at Oak Hill Hospital. She was a founding member of the women’s auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus (the Columbiettes) of St. Joan of Arc Church. She was an active advocate for children in Guardian Ad Litum and a member of the Sons of Italy. She was well known for her contributions to the life and workings of her parish, particularly in the area of religious education. She received various awards and honors for her religious, charitable and community service. Besides being a compassionate social worker, dedicated volunteer and devoted religious educator, Mil was a talented artist and loved to entertain. She was known for her creativity in and out of the kitchen. She will be missed by all who knew her. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Anne (Rovell) Forlenza. In addition to her loving husband, Eugene, Mil is survived by her sister, Carolyn (Stephen) Ciccarella, and brothers, Robert (Bonnie) Forlenza and Dr. Samuel Forlenza, (Dr. Tom Meyer) as well as her niece and goddaughter, Jennifer Ciccarella, and nephews, Stephen, Joseph, Kevin and Matthew Ciccarella. A host of other family members also survive her. Special thanks to her devoted caregivers, Ruth Giantomenico and sister-in-law Elaine Baylis. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 13485 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill, FL on Tuesday, Nov 22, 2016 at 10am. Inurnment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Clearwater, Fl will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by Turner Funeral Home, 14360 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill, FL 34609 352-796-9661.