Sophia Pollis

Sophia Pollis Naples, FL

Sophia Helen (Michalski) Pollis, 96, of Naples, formerly of E. Hanover, NJ and Bushkill, PA, passed through the Gates of Heaven, Monday morning, October 13, 2014 having suddenly taken ill on Friday.

Sophia was born May 19, 1918 in Sugar Notch, PA. She excelled academically, graduating high school at age 16. She then attended Newark College of Engineering where she met her handsome professor, Harry L. Pollis. It was mutual love at first sight and they were wed soon after. They bought 36 acres of land in rural northern NJ and together, with just best friend Diana, they built, brick by brick, the Pollis family home in East Hanover, NJ. All holidays and extended family gatherings took place there creating many happy memories which will always be cherished. They bought a Jersey shore home in Lavallette where many happy summer days were spent.

Harry died in 1965 after 30 years of marriage. Sophia made homes in Bushkill, PA during the warmer weather months and in Naples, FL during the cold season. She also enjoyed extended stays in Baltimore, MD. Sophia was always the life of the party. A gifted artist, gardener, seamstress and cook, her greatest gift was her love and support of family and friends. She was the glue that bound the hearts of two large extended families and beloved family friends.

'Soph' was predeceased by her husband, Harry; sons, Eugene and Harry, Jr.; best friend, Diana (Burke) Hurley; brothers, John, Chester and Eddie; sisters, Helen and Margie; 'son', Skippy; and great grandson, Nicholas.

Sophia will be dearly missed by her loving children, Phidias, Kathryn (Koshel), Theodore, and Carole (Portilla); adoring grandchildren, Nicholas, Tina, James, and Melanie; longtime family friends, JoAnna Flashman and Shelley Skinner; many loving nieces, nephews and great grandchildren. MomNana-Aunt Sophia, we thank you, love you and miss you.

Thanks to those Lakeside Pavilion staff and residents who cared about and for 'Mama' with gentle, tender, kindness. A special thanks to Dr. Wm. Ertag for all your extraordinary care and compassion.

A joyful Celebration of Life Memorial Party will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2014 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1947 and 1960 Harbor Lane in Brookside.

In lieu of flowers please consider rescuing an animal from a pound, or making a contribution to the Naples Cat Alliance or an animal charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.fullernaples.com