Phillis Jean Field

Phyllis passed away at the age of 99.

Born and raised on Syracuse's North Side to Italian immigrant parents, she was the youngest of three children. She often spoke fondly of growing up during the Great Depression, saying that although times were difficult, her family never went without good food.

A blind date arranged by her aunt introduced her to Russ, whom she married. They were married for nearly 20 years and raised two daughters, Pam and Marcia. After Russ's death following an eight-year battle with cancer, Phyllis raised her daughters and made sure they both received a college education.

She was a homemaker in the 1950s and 1960s who kept an immaculate home. The family gathered around the table every evening for a home-cooked meal, and Saturday nights meant steak dinners and Manhattans, a tradition she continued well into her nineties.

She worked part-time at the North Syracuse Library until about age 70 and was an avid reader throughout her life. She also enjoyed swimming, Broadway shows, trips to New York City, and watching Syracuse University and Buffalo Bills sports, never missing a game on television.

Phyllis lived independently until age 96. Although she remained mentally sharp, severe arthritis in her knees and her inability to transition safely made nursing home care necessary. She enjoyed her private room, followed politics and sports on television, and looked forward to visits from family and friends.

She loved animals, especially her cat Cuddles, and faithfully kept a nightly prayer list.

She is survived by her daughters, Pam (Dan) and Marcia (Ken); her grandchildren, Karen (Kevin) and Mark (Ari); and her great-grandchildren, Claire, Coco, Kevin, Juliette, and Calvin. She was predeceased by her husband, Russ, and her grandson, Eric.

She will be remembered for her love of family, her faith, her independence, and her lifelong love of reading.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Phyllis’s name to Humane CNY. Click here to donate.

A funeral mass will be held on August 10, 2026, at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Church, 8229 Brewerton Rd, Cicero, NY 13039. A burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, 4100 E Genesee St, Syracuse, NY 13214.

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