Phyllis Ann (Cavallaro) Phipps, 71, passed away May 26, 2022.

Phyllis graduated from Oak Park High School in 1968.  She was first married in 1970 and conceived her two children shortly after. She met and married John in 1982 and would sustain this marital bond for what would have been 40 years in December.

She primarily devoted herself to her family but also worked in the pharmacy industry as a pharmacy technician and then later part time with CVS for several years.

She was happiest in retirement spending time with her family, living in the moment and laughing up a storm. There wasn't much that kept the grass from growing under her feet. Over the years she enjoyed various activities such as golf, fishing, cooking, traveling, and gambling. Phyllis always exceeded in practically everything she set her mind to. It was almost unnerving at times. If it was golf, she was sure to achieve the longest and most perfect drive. If it was fishing, she would hook the biggest fish and I've never seen anyone win so often at the casino.

She clearly was the boss. We accepted this fact with pleasure as it clearly was her natural born role in life.

Above all else she was a passionate Italian mother who was always keeping a watchful eye and defending her children to the end. She was also generous, humble, loving and extremely sentimental. You would have to come packing with the tissues as she always cried when receiving cards, gifts, or letters. She simply loved being loved.

I am forever proud that she was my mother and know that even though she was not prepared for her diagnosis or to leave this Earth, she, like a boss, made her peace and passed with dignity and on her own terms.  She would never admit it, but she radiated strength and perseverance from the beginning of her beautiful life right up to the very end.

'She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street, she's the smell of the certain foods you remember, flowers you pick, the fragrance of life itself. She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well, she's the breath in the air on a cold winter's day. She's the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of the rainbow, she is Christmas morning. Your mother lives inside your laughter. She's the place you come from, your first home, and she's the map you follow with every step you take. She's your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy, but nothing on Earth can separate you. Not time, not space...not even death.' (Your Mother Is Always With You by Deborah R. Culver)

Phyllis was preceded in death by her father Samuel Cavallaro, and her mother Teresa Cavallaro. She is survived by her husband John F. Phipps; daughter Teresa Mendolia (Pete); son Steve Gianello; grandchildren Victoria Mendolia, Maddy and Sophia Gianello; brothers Frank Cavallaro (Janet) and Sam Cavallaro; sister-in-law Barbara Lafal (George); as well as many beloved nieces and nephews; and her loyal furever friend Rowdy.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 3, at White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Gladstone, MO.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com