Phyllis La Fata

Phyllis La Fata (nee Nybro), 92, a lifelong Staten Islander, passed away in her Port Richmond Center home on May 13, 2016. Mrs. La Fata attented P.S. 20 and graduated from Port Richmond High School. Born in Port Richmond, she lived in West Brighton, S.I., until her marriage to Andrew La Fata, Sr. in 1946. A homemaker and former PTA officer at IS 51, Phyllis was an avid bowler. Her hobbies included crossword puzzles, playing bridge, reading, watching the NY Yankees and taking trips to Atlantic City. She is survived by her son, Andrew La Fata, Jr., and daughter, Patricia Bitetti. She was Nana to Michael, Andrea, Allison and Jason and Bestemor to Tyler, Alex, Amelia, Emma and Zach. A lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church, Mrs. La Fata was predeceased by her husband, Andrew La Fata, Sr. (deceased in 1993); her parents, Ruth and Marius Nybro, and her brothers, Ralph and Richard. "Mom loved each of us in her own special way and always loved talking about the good times we all shared. During her difficult times, she would glow when her grandson, Michael Bitetti, would visit and help take care of her. She also looked forward to visits from Brooklyn Mike who could always make her smile," said her daughter, Patricia. Visitation will be Monday, May 16, at Casey Funeral Home from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Interment is at Ocean View Cemetery on Tuesday, May 17, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to VNS Hospice would be appreciated.