Phyllis Dunn, 95

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. —  Phyllis (Chartrand) Dunn of 36 Westview Terrace Easthampton, MA, formerly a 91-year citizen of North Adams, where she spent 82 of those years at 163 Pleasant Street, passed away Tuesday, July 16th, at the age of 95, in the comfort of her home surrounded by love. Phyllis was born in North Adams to Dorine (Belleau) and Oswald (Ash) Chartrand.

She cherished her connection with the Sisters of Saint Anne, who managed the Apostolate at Notre Dame. She completed a two-year commercial business course there, mastering bookkeeping, shorthand, and typing. She was also a drum corps member and always held fond memories of the Sisters, who profoundly impacted her life. She frequently volunteered at their convent after school and often recounted how they dressed her as a nun because of her constant presence.

She worked in the Sprague Electric Shipping department for five years until the birth of her second child, when she chose to become a full-time homemaker and caregiver. She embraced this role with love and gratitude. Though not a registered nurse, she provided care with the dedication of one.

A lifelong member of Notre Dame du Sacre Coeur Parish, she served as a Eucharistic minister for many years, visiting the sick in nursing homes and administering the Eucharist. She was deeply involved in her church, contributing through baking, crafting for annual fairs, and helping wherever needed. Her sincere faith and deep devotion to Mary were evident, as she was often found with a rosary in hand, praying several times a day. She frequently offered to pray the rosary for those struggling in life.

As the matriarch of our family, she was the glue that held us together. She became known for running "Phyllis’s Kitchen" from her home on Pleasant Street, with an open-door policy and a reputation for always having something ready for anyone who stopped by. Her kitchen earned the nickname “Meals on Wheels” due to her habit of delivering food to those in need. When the family gas station became a redemption center, she worked there alongside her husband, managing the books.

An avid walker, she was seen daily strolling the streets of North Adams. When not walking, she could be found in the church, the Big Y, Planet Fitness (which she attended until age 88), or relaxing on her porch.

    She loved her home on Pleasant Street, where she lived for 82 years. She was known for creating a neighborhood playground, chaperoning school field trips, and helping local kids build floats in her garage for the annual children’s parade. Her legacy of kindness, devotion, love, and community spirit will always be remembered.

She leaves behind her children: Dennis Dunn & and his wife Kathleen, Williamstown, MA; Richard Dunn & and his wife Deborah, Westfield, MA; Nancy Dunn, Easthampton, MA; Nelson (Chip) Dunn Jr. of Stamford, VT. Her grandchildren: David & Kelly Dunn, Clarksburg, MA; Laurie Booth, Clarksburg, MA; Ethan Poirot, North Carolina; Michael Dunn & fiancé Kristin Abendroth, Natick, MA; Justin Poirot, South Hadley; Sara & Ryan Pieczarka, Westfield, MA; John Dunn & partner Laura Serrano, Stamford, VT; James Dunn, Denver, CO; Jessica Dunn, North Adams, MA; Her great-grandchildren: Morgan Valios, Kennedy Raimer, Mitchell Dunn, Madison and Izzabelle Dunn, Ryder and Kaila Pieczarka. Bailey Dandurand Dunn, Ian Dunn, Jackson Dunn, Demerling Dunn; Daughter-in-law: Joni Dunn of North Adams Sister-in-law: Marguarette Gigliotti of New Ashford; and 9 Nieces. She was pre-deceased by: Nelson J. Dunn, husband, Ronald W. Chartrand, brother, James Gigliotti, Nephew, Rhonda Chartrand, Niece, Ceila Harris, Aunt.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A Liturgy of Christian Burial for Phyllis Dunn will be celebrated Monday July 22, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church. Burial will follow in Southview cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Cooley Dickinson VNA Hospice 168 Industrial Drive, Northampton, MA 01060. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com