Phyllis F. Jaffe

1930 - 2025

Phyllis Francine Jaffe, 94, of Brooklyn, NY, Lenox, MA and Sarasota, FL died peacefully at home among family on August 6, 2025. Born to Sarah and Harry Gross, she grew up with beloved brother Joel, attended Brooklyn College, and earned a M.A. at New York University. She married Joseph Jaffe, and they lived an abundant life together surrounded by family and friends, for more than 50 years. Phyllis was a mom extraordinaire to Rosalind, Harriet, and Robert. She was a much-loved teacher of English in Brooklyn high schools, and was named a NYC Teacher of the Year. In retirement, Phyllis deepened her passions, researching authors and the classics, leading book discussion groups, providing care as a cuddler of babies in an intensive care unit, and volunteering with hospice. Phyllis was a force in the kitchen, and hosted many dinner parties and holiday celebrations. She attended countless theater and dance performances, and traveled the world. Throughout her life, she made many devoted friends, deeply loved her husband, and inspired her children and grandchildren with her boundless energy and loving spirit. She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Jaffe, and brother, Joel Gross. She is survived by children Rosalind (Pat), Harriet (David), Robert, and grandchildren Angelica, Julia, Owen, and Annalise. A celebration of her life is planned for the fall.