May 7, 1932 – November 8, 2019
Our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Ted J. Stessman, III; parents, Anna (DeMarco) and Gustave DiBaise. She put family first throughout her lifetime. Her family meant everything to her, and nothing made her happier than a family gathering. She loved the holidays—displaying her generous spirit especially at Christmas time. Whether it was shopping for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren or baking cookie trays for her friends, mom received more joy out of giving than receiving.
In her own words, mom was a “stubborn Italian woman,” full of opinions we didn’t always agree with but knew she had our best interests at heart. She always spoke her truth. Mom’s wide circle of friends meant the world to her. She made a great effort to maintain friendships throughout her life. She loved playing bridge and going to lunch or a movie.
Mom’s Catholic faith sustained her and even when she wasn’t strong enough to attend church, she never missed the televised Mass Sunday mornings on WOWT.
She is survived by children: Karen Weber (Larry), Ted Stessman, IV (Julie), Laurie Barnes (Bob), and Susie Blue (Jim); nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, John DiBaise (Katie); sisters-in-law, Grace Rapp (Ray), Bette Wilson; brother-in-law, Chuck Stessman; beloved nieces and nephews and cherished friends.
Memorials suggested to St. Bernard’s School, St. Joan of Arc Church, Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach (Lincoln), or the VNA.
8 Comments
My deepest condolences to the entire family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. My cousin Phyllis will be deeply missed
No sweeter lady walked the earth than my loving Cousin Phyllis. She was always so accepting, loving and kind to Wendy and I. A true Christian character displayed to all who knew and loved her. Blessings on all and prayers for the family. She is already greatly missed. Earths loss is heavens gain. Rest well Cousin and we will meet again at the throne of Jesus.
I did not get to know Phyllis for very long but was greatful for the time I was able to see her.She was always a gracious host and wanting me to go to lunch with her.I loved listening to her stories.My condolences to Karen and the family.Your mother was a special lady!
So sorry to hear about Phylis. Our condolences to the Stessman family.
Condolences to the Stessman family.
My deepest condolences to the Stessman family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.
Aunt Phyllis never failed to treat me like a king each and every time I visited. She was tremendously warm, generous, and loving. Nobody did it better. I’ll always love her and have the warmest memories of how welcome she always made me feel. Quite a lady.
I am 20 yrs younger than Phyllis, a fact she would frequently point out. My mother, Sara Federico, was pregnant with me at Phyllis and Ted’s wedding. Growing up, Phyllis was more an Aunt/Cousin figure as I was the same age as her kids, Things would change when my mother entered a care center. I turned to Phyllis to point out what my mom needed. We really came to know one another as individuals. I looked forward to our quarterly meetings when I traveled back to visit Mom. We shopped for clothes and other personal needs for my mother, We took time out for lunches and many pow wows around the famous kitchen table with Ted . How many people can say they really came to know another person. When my mother sadly left us Phyllis was there for support . My trips continued until my brother John passed away. The “Phil” time on those trips was a must or she would not let me hear the end of it! A very close 1st cousin relationship blossomed and the aunt figure melted away.
I Iove you Phil,
Jay
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