Phyllis Gutmann

Phyllis Gutmann passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on August 3, 1932, in Mount Vernon, New York, to Amelia and Pasquale Sansone, where her lifelong love of learning, art, and family first took root. In 1956, she met the love of her life, Henry, and together they shared 42 devoted years of marriage before his life ended far too soon.

Her greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Charlotte (Andy), and her son, Paul. She will be deeply missed by her beloved grandchildren, Drew (Melanie) and Emily, and by her treasured great-grandson, Jonah. She is also survived by her brother, Guy; her nephews, Guy (Kerry) and Richard; and many extended family members who loved her dearly.

Phyllis grew up in Mount Vernon, graduating from high school and going on to attend Hunter College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English. She also earned a Master’s degree at CCNY. She began her career as a schoolteacher on Long Island before dedicating herself fully to raising her family. Her early love of language later blossomed into a deep and enduring passion for art. She pursued her artistic studies through local colleges, workshops, and countless hours spent in the museums of New York City. Her abstract artwork was exhibited throughout New York and reflected her creativity, curiosity, and expressive spirit. She also found joy in the pursuit of poetry, photography, sculpture, and the beauty of the natural world.

Following a cherished family tradition started by her mother, Phyllis was a wonderful cook, known especially for her homemade Italian dishes. Cooking was one of the many ways she showed love, and she delighted in feeding others whenever she could. This passion and generosity were lovingly passed down to her daughter and granddaughter.

Phyllis had an extraordinary love for life. She was warm, social, and had a rare gift for making people feel seen and valued. She formed deep connections wherever she went and was truly adored by many. While her absence leaves a profound emptiness, her kindness, creativity, and love live on through the family she cherished and the countless lives she touched.