Phyllis Dieni

Mystic — Phyllis Marie (Ardolino) Dieni, 83, of Mystic, passed away on Wednesday, April 11, 2018, with her loving husband by her side.

Born in Springfield, Mass., on Jan. 18, 1935, she was the daughter of Antonio Ardolino and Lena (Vancini) Trahan. Phyllis was a kindhearted and giving woman who was loved, is missed and will always be cherished. Our “Noni,” as she liked to be called by her grandchildren, was an amazing wife, mom, daughter and a dancer extraordinaire who loved to cut up the rug at family gatherings.

Phyllis will be lovingly remembered by her husband of almost 62 years, Dominick Dieni of Mystic; son, David Dieni of San Francisco, Calif.; daughter, Alicia Furgueson (Bill Furgueson) of Mystic; grandchildren, Emma and Quinn Furgueson; brothers, Antonio and Chester Ardolino; sisters, Colleen Trahan and Linda Jordan; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis touched many lives as a special education teacher at Longmeadow High School and later as a retirement counselor for the Massachusetts Teacher’s Retirement Board, assisting teachers with their retirement. Her face lit up when she would see a baby or child smile or laugh. She always had time for helping others, and invariably you could find her lending an ear to family, friends and those in need. Phyllis was a dedicated mother who lived for her children, showing them unconditional love. She was passionate about family and truly enjoyed family get-togethers. Family and friends are invited to gather from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 15, 2018, at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 N. Main St., East Longmeadow, Mass. Funeral services will be held at 8:45 a.m. Monday, April 16, 2018, at the funeral home followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial and celebration of her life at 10 a.m., at St. Mary’s Church, Longmeadow. Committal services will be held at the Gate of Heaven Most Holy Redeemer Mausoleum, Tinkham Road, Springfield, Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 19 Ohio Ave., Norwich, CT 06360.

For more information, please visit www.forastiere. com.