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Phyllis Joan Handford
Phyllis Joan Handford
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Phyllis Handford Obituary
She was the devoted wife of Robert Handford. She was born in New Haven,CT on Sept.10,1934 to Phyllis and Robert Lawson Sr. of Hamden,Ct. Joan was a passionate floral designer for many years and enjoyed creating beautiful arrangements, primarily for large events. Her children describe her as funny, loving and kind. She mostly enjoyed spending time with her family where she was known as "MeMa" to her grandchildren. She was famous for providing love, entertainment and an ear to anyone in need. She is survived by her daughter Rhonda Moller of Chatham,Ma, son Troy Moller of Fitzwilliam, NH, daughter Daryl Esposito of Branford,Ct, eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren (one on the way) and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter Bonnie Marcell and brother Robert Lawson Jr. She also leaves behind a brother Kenneth Lawson (Nancy) of Hillsboro,MO, two sisters, Carole Buonocore (Frank) and Judith Andranovich both of West Haven, Ct. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association @ www.alz.org.
A private water burial is planned.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Nicholas Esposito & Ruby Hunter
September 11, 2023
Phyllis Handford, know to us as "mema", is a song and a dance in one. She was caring, funny and as outgoing as one can be. She made friends everywhere she was, and even everywhere she wasn´t because people heard of her stories and fun nature. I didn´t know her as long as her kids nor did I see how she raised them, but I know she did the world justice. Each one of them, Rhonda, Troy, over beloved Bonnie, and Daryl are outstanding people who have done nothing but help people and enjoy the lives they´ve been blessed with. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of us all, rippling out in the world, forever and ever.
Nicholas Esposito
September 5, 2023
Mathew Esposito
September 5, 2023
Denise Vece
September 5, 2023
Dear Dee, Troy, Rhonda & family, please accept my condolences. So very sorry. Your mom was the best lady. May she rest in Peace. Love, Denise Vece
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Daryl Esposito
September 5, 2023
Daryl Esposito
September 5, 2023
Daryl Esposito
September 5, 2023
Daryl Esposito
September 5, 2023
Daryl Esposito
September 4, 2023
My sweet wonderful mom! You are forever a part of my soul Nothing can ever change that. My mother, my bestfriend and my teacher❤. Everything I am I owe to you. You gave me strength to carry on even in the darkest times. I will love you always. You are my heart. Rest in Peace mommy. Until we meet again. Your loving daughter,
Daryl
Heath Andranovich
September 3, 2023
My wonderful aunt Dusty always loved the ahi out of you....you were so good to me, happy silly, friendly, loving, and caring, so much fun. Every time I would go to that house my childhood was a joy when I was there, you will never be forgotten.and thank you for letting me keep my dirt bike in your back yard when I was school lol uncle Bob wasn´t happy but you made it happen lol And my beautiful cousins mom did a fantastic job with all of you I love you all
Cousin Heath
Stephani Buonocore
September 3, 2023
Aunty Dusty used to tell me so many stories! One of my favorites was when she was younger she used to sing loud near her open window hoping to be discovered. I have been a performer many years and will hold that story with me every time I sing. I love you Auntie Dusty!
Cristalyn Searles
September 3, 2023
Cristalyn Searles
September 3, 2023
Cristalyn Searles
September 3, 2023
Cristalyn Searles
September 3, 2023
Cristalyn Searles
September 3, 2023
Mema, you were the best grandma ever. So many great memories of you taking me to feed the ducks and swans, sleepovers in bed watching Regis and Kathie Lee in the mornings, playing with Annie, vacations together with the whole family, singing to me all of the time, playing dress up with your jewelry and makeup, going to the beach and your favorite thing shopping , sitting at your fireplace waiting for the brownies to drop pennies, holidays together... you made my childhood very happy to be with you. You were my favorite. I love you more than you´ll ever know and miss you so much. I will forever cherish our memories, your sense of humor, your love, and your beautiful singing voice. You´ve given us all so much. A special thank you to my aunt DeeDee for taking such great care and going above and beyond to make sure her life was filled with all the things she loved all the way until the end.
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