Phyllis DeBernardo

Phyllis DeBernardo of New York, N.Y. passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025 at the age of 81.

Born in the vibrant neighborhood of Lower Manhattan on September 5, 1943, to Pauline Gomes and George Joseph DeBernardo, Phyllis was the eldest sister to Sandy, Peter and Rosalene.

Phyllis’s story is one of boundless love. As a mother, her heart knew no limits, and her son, Charlie Zittel, was the center of her world. Her late husband, Thomas Barrett, was also blessed to experience the deep level of loyalty and commitment she had for others. Her selflessness extended beyond the confines of family, touching the lives of friends and co-workers alike especially her nieces.

In her lifetime, Phyllis faced challenges with a courage that was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Despite life’s hardships, Phyllis never stopped living life to the fullest. She took great pride in her career as a chef and supervisor for the Department of Education. She enjoyed spending her days on the beach and her nights in casinos and she always had a big, bold smile when partying it up with friends.

As we reflect on the life of Phyllis DeBernardo, let us not dwell on the sorrow of her departure but celebrate the joy she brought into our lives. Let us honor her memory by embracing the qualities she exemplified: love without condition, courage without falter, and generosity without expectation.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 1PM – 5PM at Provenzano Lanza Funeral Home, 43 2nd Ave, New York, NY. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 10AM at Saint Peter’s Church, 22 Barclay Street, New York, NY.