Phyllis Ann Allen

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Phyllis Ann Allen, who left this world on January 24, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born on November 5, 1942, into a large Catholic family of 10 children, and raised in Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan. Throughout her life, Phyllis called many places home, including Detroit, Grosse Pointe Parkand Alpena, before spending her final years in West Bloomfield.
Phyllis was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother and friend. She is survived by her three children: Karen (Chesney) Jacobson, Craig Chesney (and Kathy), and Katie (Chesney) Friedrichs. She was a beloved grandmother to six grandchildren: Erica, Marie, Jillian, Luc, Zach and Ryan. Phyllis is also survived by seven siblings, who, along with her children, were a great source of love and support.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Paul Garvey; her sisters, Gail Garvey Marnell and Sharron Garvey Murphy; and her son-in-law, Robert Friedrichs.
Phyllis was a proud graduate of St. Ambrose High School, Class of 1960. She treasured the friendships she made there, organizing class reunions and keeping those lifelong connections strong. She raised her three children on Haverhill Street in Detroit, where she fostered deep and lasting friendships with neighbors.
A lover of cards and games, Phyllis looked forward to her weekly bridge card group. She was known for her many card games of Tripoley, Hollywood Rummy and Gin Rummy, always bringing a competitive spirit and plenty of laughter to the table. These games were more than just entertainment for Phyllis-they were a way to connect with family and friends, creating lasting memories over the years.
Summers were spent at the river in Gladwin, creating cherished memories with family at the cottage.
Later in life, Phyllis relocated to Alpena, Michigan, where she embraced the beauty of lake life. She frequently hosted family, filling her home with love, laughter, and the delicious meals she was known for. She especially cherished the time spent with her grandchildren, sharing in their adventures and making lifelong memories on the water and with local
outings. Phyllis was also an active volunteer at Alpena General Hospital, always finding ways to give back to her community.
Phyllis had a natural gift for caregiving. She lovingly cared for her mother, Helen, traveling monthly from Alpena to be by her side. She also provided support for her cousin, Jean Guillaumin, during her final days. This selflessness and dedication to family were at the core of who Phyllis was.
A talented cook, Phyllis was known for her special meals-her pork tenderloin roast and meat-stuffed Italian shells were reserved for the most special of occasions (and sometimes, for the local priest). She had a way of making gatherings feel extra special with her warmth and hospitality.
As she navigated life with Alzheimer's disease, Phyllis remained fiercely independent, supported by her children, siblings, neighbors, and dear friends. In her final years, she was cared for with great love and devotion at a full-time care home in West Bloomfield. Her caregiver, Kizzie, became a true companion, providing comfort and kindness until Phyllis's last day.
Phyllis lived life to the fullest, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity. Those who knew her will forever hold her in their hearts.
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, January 31, at 12:00 noon at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 15020 Hampton St., Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230. Family and friends are welcome to gather from 11:00 AM to 12:00 noon prior to the service. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider performing an act of kindness in Phyllis's honor. Donations in her memory may be made to the
Michigan Medicine, Alzheimer's Disease Research Fund 307306, Office of Development, 1000 Oakbrook, Suite 100, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
https://giving.umich.edu/basket/fund/307386