Born in New Bedford daughter of the late Richard and the late Lila (Gilbert) Lister, Phyllis lived most of her life in New Bedford, moving to Fairhaven in 2002.
She attended the Greater NB Regional Vocational Technical High School. She was a Medical Assistant for 10 years retiring from St. Luke’s Hospital, prior thereto she worked at Rodney Medals for 15 years, where she made many lifelong friendships.
A member of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, she was active with their Food Pantry.
She enjoyed bowling. She found joy in reading, playing video games, gardening, and spending time at Ft Phoenix beach with her husband. What brought her the most joy was her grandchildren.
Phyllis was a fighter, after suffering from COPD for many years, she had a bi-lateral lung transplant in August of 2019.
Surviving besides her husband are 2 daughters Heather Pimental and her husband Rob of Fairhaven, Tracy Santos and her companion Malcolm of New Bedford; a son Richard Boyer and his wife Julie of Tempe, AZ; a sister Pat Foley of New Bedford; beloved grandchildren Kenzi Hinchliffe, Colbey Sullivan, Josie Pimental, Nathan Boyer, Grace Boyer, Leyla Cabral and Reagan Boyer.
Her Funeral Service will be held Tuesday July 18, 2023 at 11am in St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 136 Rivet St., New Bedford. Burial will be private. Memorial contribution may be made to Southcoast VNA, Attn: Community Affairs, 200 Mill Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719; www.southcoast.org or the family requests you bring a non-perishable food item to the service for St. Martin’s Food Pantry.
Arrangements in the care of Waring-Sullivan Home at Fairlawn, 180 Washington St. Fairhaven. For online tribute: www.waring-sullivan.com
