Phyllis H. Freije

Phyllis H. Freije, age 93, a resident of Derby, entered into eternal rest on February 15, 2023. She was born on August 2, 1929, in Ansonia, daughter of the late Peter and Nellie Hyder Freije.

A graduate of Ansonia High School, she worked at Sy’s Center Spa in West Haven, cooking and being the right-hand person first for the owner, Sy Swan, and after he passed in 1961, for his widow, Virginia Freije Swan. She was the heart of the restaurant for 24 years. In 1972, she changed careers and became a dental assistant to Dr. Nicholas Totalo in Derby and brought her strong work ethic there, as well as her caring personality; she worked there for 35 years. Phyllis was an active member of the St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church and was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

She was predeceased by her four sisters, Evelyn Freije, Lorice Freije, Virginia Freije Swan, Gloria H. Freije Knowlton, and one brother, Albert P. Freije. She is survived by six nieces and two nephews, eight greatnieces and nephews, and four great-great-nieces. She showered them all with love and they loved her dearly.

Phyllis was a good friend and has left behind a number of people with whom she enjoyed long lasting friendships.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church, 5458 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT. A viewing will begin at the church at 10AM with a service at 11AM. Burial will take place at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Ansonia at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis’ memory to her church. The Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home, 12 Franklin St. Ansonia has been privileged with arrangements.