Obituary of Phyllis A. Cira

November 11, 2024.
Pre-deceased by her loving husband of 56 years, Ronald Cira, and her parents Philip and Agusta Castranova. 

Phyllis is survived by her cherished daughter and son-in-law Rene & David Spallina and adored granddaughter Samantha (Kirby Compton-Burch). She is also survived by her sisters Lucia Privitera and Patricia Ippolito, brother Joseph (Patricia) Castranova, sister-in-law, Corinne (Ed) Campanella, brother-in-law Sam Cira, dearest forever friends and confidants Linda & Mike Nicosia, her Pane Vino On The Avenue Family and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
        
Phyllis lived a very blessed life, enjoying many roles throughout her 85-year-long journey,  which included being a Daughter, Sister, Wife, Aunt, Mother, Nonnie, Friend and Co-worker. Rene and Samantha were her greatest joys, and she relished above all, her roles as Mother and Nonnie. She retired from Aetna Insurance after a dedicated 40-year career  and pursued her passion for baking. Never one to be idle, at the age of 79, she joined Pane Vino On The Avenue to help Rene and David with their restaurant. Her joy was infectious, and she and the PV staff readily embraced each other as family. Phyllis was an ardent baker, and her amazing carrot cake and biscotti became the restaurant’s signature dessert. 

Phyllis was a woman of valor – a nurturer and a warrior, selfless in every aspect of her life.  Her joy, laughter and love captured the hearts of those privileged enough to have been in her company, and she will live on in our memories and hearts. She will be forever missed.

Thank you to everyone who shared your love and laughter with Phyllis and her family over the years. Thank you to the entire Strong Memorial Hospital team that rooted for Phyllis daily and whose compassionate care and kindness were a source of comfort during a difficult time.

No prior calling hours. Saturday November 16, please meet the family at St. Jerome’s Church, of East Rochester for the celebration of Phyllis’ memorial mass at 9:30am. Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wilmot Cancer Institute/Liver Cancer Center.