Maryellen Byers Phillips

Maryellen Byers Phillips, aged 87, cherished wife of John Phillips Sr., passed away peacefully with the immense love of her family in her heart, on Saturday, July 31, 2021.

Born on September 8, 1933 in Brooklyn, NY to the late John Robert and Susan Mansfield Byers, Maryellen had an idyllic childhood growing up in Glendale, Queens where she attended St. Pancras elementary and St. Joseph’s High Schools, learned to play the piano, explored the Far Rockaways in the summertime, and enjoyed many adventures in NYC. She also spent quality time with her extended, close knit and much adored Irish family on the hill. She absolutely cherished her Irish heritage.

After graduating from high school, Maryellen went on to attend Fordham University while working for Marine Midland Bank in NYC. While vacationing at a resort in the Catskills, ‘ME’ met the love of her life—a country boy from Upstate New York. After a whirlwind romance, Maryellen and John were married on September 4th, 1954, and lived in Ravena, NY until relocating to Milford, CT in 1967 where they continued raising their family.

Over the years, Maryellen worked as an accomplished Administrative Assistant at the Albany NY Legislative office, and for various companies including Eastern Express, US Motors, and Harvey Hubbell. At some point, she also found time to start a separate career selling real estate. During this time, Maryellen also developed a deep love for travel. Travelling domestically to the American Southwest, Colorado, and California among other US destinations, ME also enjoyed trips abroad including multiple trips to her beloved Ireland and other fascinating places. Through it all, and while working full-time, Maryellen lovingly cared for her home and family making it all look effortless.

Yet of all the things in Maryellen’s life, she most adored being PeeWee, Mom, Sister, and especially Nana to her treasured family. She loved spending as much time as possible with them, making memories and especially celebrating special events. She truly loved a good party.

Besides John, her husband of 67 years, Maryellen is survived by sons John Phillips Jr., (Vickie) of Hamden, Tom Phillips (Janet) of Orange, Tim Phillips (Mari O’Connor) of Milford and NYC, daughter Kathy Phillips-Kelley (Billy) of Shelton, and twin sister Margaret ‘Peggy’ Maguire (Jack) of Brooklyn, NY.

She will also be dearly missed by her grandchildren William and Caitlyn Kelley, Rachel, Sarah and Jeremy Phillips, Christopher (Michelle) and David Rangel, Brigitte (Chris) Lopez, and Kaelyn and Abi Phillips, as well as several great grandchildren, much loved nieces and nephews, In-laws, dear friends, and of course Lucky, her grand dog, all whose company she thoroughly enjoyed and loved with all her heart.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the many caregivers over the years, including Allison, and most recently Lorraine who helped give Mom the quality of life she deserved at home. We couldn’t have done this without your care and support and are forever grateful.

A Catholic Mass celebrating Maryellen’s life will be held Wednesday, August 4th at 10:30 am at St Mary Church, 70 Gulf St, Milford. All are invited to attend the service. Burial will be private for family only.

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