Philomena (Phyllis) J. Pardi, 92, passed away peacefully at the United Methodist Communities at Pitman on Saturday, March 30. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, A. Michael Pardi, her parents, Nicola and Giovanna Lopardo, and her brother Johnny. Phyllis was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She graduated from Peabody High School in East Liberty, PA in 1949. Phyllis and her future husband Michael met at a dance, after which Michael announced to his cousin that he had met the girl he was going to marry. He followed through on that promise and they remained together for 50 years until his passing.

Phyllis worked for a time at a local dress shop, the Bell Telephone Company, and the Clover Department Store. She moved to Blackwood, NJ, in 1968, and then to Bridlewood Estates in Deptford before joining the United Methodist Communities. She was a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Phyllis leaves behind three devoted daughters and sons-in-law: Anita and Jack Rowland of Haddonfield, Donna and Wayne Harris of Sewell, and Linda and John Luxford of Sewell; her beloved sister Peggy Anobile of Pittsburgh; the pride and joy of her life, grandchildren Jacqueline Harris, Johnny Rowland, Michael Harris, Andrew Rowland, Christian Luxford, and Nicole Luxford; her beautiful great-grandchildren, Lila and Leo Luxford; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Robert Pardi (Enis) of North Scituate, RI, sister-in-law Etta Mello of West Warwick, RI, and cousin Dr. Vincent Lopardo of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Phyllis was the heart and soul of her family and a cherished friend to many. Her life was defined by love, kindness, generosity, humility, compassion, and hospitality. She had a wonderful sense of humor and believed that a cup of coffee could solve any problem.
Phyllis was a true matriarch. At family events, whether they were birthday celebrations, vacations in the Outer Banks, or impromptu get-togethers, Phyllis was the center of the activity. A wonderful cook and the consummate hostess, her focus was always directed toward the family. Her beautiful smile, her willingness to listen, her encouraging words, and her warm hugs will be remembered always.

The family wishes to recognize the Tapestries staff of the United Methodist Communities at Pitman for the skill, respect, kindness, good humor, and positive attitude they demonstrated in caring for Phyllis and for the support they provided her family. The family is very grateful that Phyllis lived her final years in such a loving, safe environment.

There will be a viewing at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME in RUNNEMEDE from 7:00 to 9:00 pm on Sunday, April 7, and from 9:00 to 10:00 am on Monday, April 8, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 at the Church of the Holy Family, 226 Hurffville Rd. in Sewell, NJ. Entombment will be at New St. Mary Cemetery and Mausoleum in Bellmawr.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) in Phyllis's name.

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