Phyllis DeMeo

Phyllis DeMeo (Gagliardi), a devoted wife to Arthur DeMeo and mother to Arthur DeMeo Jr. and his wife Jennifer, and Stephanie DeMeo and her partner Shara, passed away on February 11th after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, she was the cherished daughter of Frank and Francis Gagliardi. She grew up with her older brother Frank, and was surrounded by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and lots of cousins, who became some of her closest friends. They helped her develop her quick wit, great sense of humor, and infectious laugh. Love of family and friends were what was most important to her, and she passed that on to her children.

She was a woman of profound devotion to her husband, her two children, and her mother whom she cared for until her passing in 2024 at the remarkable age of 109.

In retirement Phyllis and Arthur moved to The Poconos where they built a second life which Phyllis loved. She fed the deer in the yard, went to car shows and craft fairs, and made a cherished group of friends who proudly called themselves The Magnificent Seven.

She faced her cancer diagnosis with grace under the constant care and worry of her two children. She eventually moved to Pittsburgh where her son Arthur took on her daily care- doing it in a way a mother could only dream of.

Her family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and caregivers that helped with Phyllis's care over the last 5 years. We would not have gotten these last years with her if it wasn't for their help.

Always a lover of animals, and mother to lots of adopted birds, cats, and dogs, we ask that in lieu of flowers you make a donation to your local animal shelter in her memory.

At this time, no plans for a service have been made. The family will provide updates as they become available.

Professional services entrusted to Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory Ltd; 930 Center Avenue Blawnox, PA, 15238; www.thomasmsmithfuneralhome.com.