Phyllis Fiorito

Phyllis Marie Fiorito, 90, of Oro Valley, AZ passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, after living a full life surrounded by family and friends. She was born in 1934 in Chicago, IL to William Walter Stephens and Phyllis (O’Neill) Stephens. Phyllis attended grade school at Portage Park School and then went on to graduate from Schurz High School.After High School, she married the “boy next door” and the love of her life, the late Pat Peter Fiorito. Together they raised three children and enjoyed travelling, visiting with friends & family and spending quality time together. They were married in 1952 and celebrated 36 years of marriage before Pat’s passing in 1988.

Phyllis lived in the house she raised her family in, and next to the house that she grew up in, in Chicago until 1999 when she moved out to Scottsdale, Arizona. She moved to Oro Valley in 2018 and enjoyed her life at the Fairwinds Desert Point.

Phyllis is survived by her daughter Cathy (the late Ed) Van Weelden, and her son Mike (Bonnie) Fiorito. She was blessed with six grandchildren; Carla Chrisos, Jeff (Amy) Van Weelden, Jill (Rob) Burris, Cole Chrisos, Gina (Matt) Duran, Chad Chrisos and six great grandchildren: Dakota Van Weelden, Chyenne Van Weelden, Joshwa Chrisos, McKenna Burris, Reed Burris, and Lyla Duran.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda (the late Charles) Chrisos, brother Willian Walter Stephens Jr. and many other loved ones.

She was known by several names including Mom, Granny, GiGi, Sweetie and Phyllis. Many aliases for a great lady. She was a fabulous cook and shared her love for food and wine with those around her. She was an avid reader and crossword player. Phyllis loved spending time with her family, cooking and playing bingo with her friends at the Fairwinds. Her family is grateful for the blessing of her caregivers and friends at Catalina Hospice and Fairwinds. They brought joy and love into her life.

Phyllis will be greatly missed but we are comforted by the thought that she will be reunited with the love of her life and other loved ones that passed before her. A Celebration of Life will be held later and announced by the family when the arrangements are finalized.