Philomena M. Adams

Philomena “Phyllis” Adams of New Milford, NJ passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, September 5th, 2024. Phyllis was many things: loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, Godmother, proud grandmother (“Nonna”), teacher, leader, mentor, world famous meatball maker, exercise enthusiast and fighter. Phyllis lived a full, vibrant and beautiful life with her best friend and husband of 43 years, Paul, surrounded by family and friends. She was 67 years young. 

Phyllis, the first daughter of the late Daniel and Doris Piro is also predeceased by sister Rosemarie Piro. Phyllis was a proud mother of daughter Daniela, son-in-law Andrew, and grandson Santino ("Sonny") Paul – daughter Stephanie, son-in-law Kevin, and granddaughter Rose ("Rosie") Philomena–son Nicholas who recently earned his PhD, and loyal dog & companion Ozzy. Phyllis also leaves behind her loving brother Vincent Piro, his wife Elizabeth and sons Aniello and Vincent. 

Phyllis was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of Cervical Cancer in late December 2020 and fought tirelessly until the very end. She became active in the Cervivor support network- you can read about her courageous cancer battle here: https://cervivor.org/stories/philomena/

Phyllis was a longtime resident of New Milford, NJ having graduated from NMHS in 1975. After attending  William Paterson University, she began a lifelong career in education, recently retiring from Paterson Public Schools after earning three Master's Degrees in Education: Reading, Special Education, and Educational Administration. Outside of the classroom she was a devoted parishioner at the Church of the Ascension, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and Catechist. 

Her warmth, cheer, beautiful blue eyes, and infectious positivity will be deeply missed by all, especially those whom she had the privilege of teaching. Her family has comfort in knowing that she is looking down on them with a big smile, and of course making sure they always use the right pot for the artichokes, and never set the holiday table without her prized Lenox. 

She was an inspiration to so many. 

A wake will be held at Boulevard Funeral Home (New Milford, NJ), Tues 9/10 4-8 pm, Wed 9/11 2-4 pm & 7-9 pm; the funeral will be held at the Church of the Ascension Thu 9/12 10 am followed by an interment at Garden of Memories Mausoleum (Washington Township, NJ). In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Cervivor Cervical Cancer Support Network (https://cervivor.org/)

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