Phyllis May Brislawn

Born June 22, 1930 in San Mateo California, to Edward Lupton and Dorothy Wintler Lupton. Phyllis passed gently and without pain on October 9, 2008, at her home in Piedmont. She was surrounded by loving family. Phyllis May is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ferdinand Leo Brislawn. She was a devoted Mother to Margaret Brislawn Love, Helen Brislawn, and Gordon Brislawn as well as an inspiration to her three granddaughters, Anastacia, Allison, Katherine and her cherished extended family. She was graduated from Mills College and received her Masters degree in Psychology from Stanford University (Phi Beta Kappa). Phyllis was passionate and dedicated to her career as a school psychologist. She started her career as Director of Special Education in the Palo Alto School District, from there she moved on to Emeryville and Richmond. Her mission was to ensure that the pupils became successful readers as a foundation for academic and personal success. Her many outside interests included traveling, attending the Berkeley Rep. and the Paramount Theater, volunteering at the American Cancer Society's Discovery Shop, docent and archivist at Pardee House, and teaching Sunday School as well as many years as Secretary to St. Cuthbert's Vestry. She also built an amazing doll house and spent most of her time supporting her friends and family. She was a quiet role model who did not bring glory to herself when others succeeded with her help. It was her way to make people feel appreciated and important. Her life, love and perspective inspired and moved all those who knew her. Phyllis will be greatly missed by many, but now she lives in each of our hearts. She was truly one of God's special people. Of all her many accomplishments her family was always first in her heart. Services will be held at St. Cuthbert's on November 15th, 2008 at 11 a.m., with reception to follow. St. Cuthbert's Episcopal Church is on Mountain Blvd., Oakland, California. For directions go to "StCuthbertsOakland.org". In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis' honor to St. Cuthbert's Episcopal Church.