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PHYLLIS McGOVERN Obituary

McGOVERN--Phyllis. Phyllis Elizabeth McGovern passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the age of 84, with her children by her side. She was the devoted wife and widow of Eugene F. McGovern, a construction industry icon and a founder of Lehrer/McGovern Inc. Phyllis lived a life filled with warmth, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to her family and community. She will be remembered for her beauty, style, grace, generosity, and the love she shared with those around her. Phyllis was born in 1940 in New York City to Daniel and Elizabeth McCarthy, she grew up on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and graduated from Blessed Sacrament High School. Her father was a banker, while her mother and sister, Geraldine, were registered nurses. Phyllis developed a passion for business, real estate, accounting, and economics. She studied business and psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University and was a licensed real estate broker, excelling in her field with intelligence and determination. Phyllis possessed the style and grace of a queen, combined with the beauty and fashion sense of a Hollywood leading lady. But her true beauty extended far beyond appearances - it was her inner strength, intellect, and charm that captivated those around her. A devoted matriarch, Phyllis fiercely protected and cared for her family. She was the proud mother of four children, grandmother to thirteen grandchildren, and great- grandmother to four. Known as the family's "ROCK," she was always there to support, guide, and uplift her loved ones through life's challenges. She leaves behind her beloved children and their spouses: Eric and Donna McGovern, Daniel and Tessa McGovern, Derek and Gina McGovern, Phyllis Jean and Allan Middleton. She was a cherished grandmother to Ryan, Jordan, Christopher, Danielle, Phillip, Colton, Tyler, Garrett, Katie, Dylan, Gene, Maxx, and PJ, and a great-grandmother to Aydin, Reese, Miles, and Genevieve. She also leaves behind two cherished sisters-in-law Lorna Mion and Patti Hahn and many dear friends who will miss her dearly.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Apr. 6, 2025.

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