PHYLLIS E. DANA

1920 - 2025

DANA, Phyllis E. Obituary Phyllis Elaine Dana (Ruskin), 96, of Newton and Bourne, Massachusetts, died peacefully on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Her family and friends will remember her for her tremendous empathy and thoughtfulness. Born on September 26, 1920, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Phyllis grew up with her sister, Pauline; and her parents, Harry and Ruth Ruskin. In 1941, she married Charles Arthur Dana, and together they raised two children, Vivian and Eric. During World War II, she sewed black out curtains to help the war effort. Later, she earned degrees in education and social work and worked as a pediatric mental health social worker. For many years, she served as the director of the children's unit at Mass Mental Health in Boston. In her free time, Phyllis traveled to over 60 countries, including India, China, and outer Mongolia. She was a great lover of music, attending countless Boston Symphony Orchestra concerts with her husband. When she retired, she made a home on Cape Cod, where she gardened and enjoyed life with her miniature poodles and Bichon Frises. She is survived by her daughter, Vivian Pollock; son, Eric Dana; granddaughter, Jamie Pollock; as well as her son-in-law, Ronald Pollock; and daughter-in-law, Beth Dana. A Funeral Service to celebrate her life will be held on Wednesday, January 29th, at 1 pm at Stanetsky Memorial Chapel, 1668 Beacon St., BROOKLINE, MA. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association at https://www.alz.org/ 1668 Beacon St., Brookline, MA

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