In loving memory of

Philomena J. Pardi
September 10, 1931 - March 30, 2024

Philomena (Phyllis) J. Pardi, 92, passed away peacefully at the United Methodist Communities at Pitman on Saturday, March 30. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, A. Michael Pardi, her parents, Nicola and Giovanna Lopardo, and her brother Johnny. Phyllis was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. She graduated from Peabody High School in East Liberty, PA in 1949. Phyllis and her future husband Michael met at a dance, after which Michael announced to his cousin that he had met the girl he was going to marry. He followed through on that promise and they remained together for 50 years until his passing.

Phyllis worked for a time at a local dress shop, the Bell Telephone Company, and the Clover Department Store. She moved to Blackwood, NJ, in 1968, and then to Bridlewood Estates in Deptford before joining the United Methodist Communities. She was a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

Phyllis leaves behind three devoted daughters and sons-in-law: Anita and Jack Rowland of Haddonfield, Donna and Wayne Harris of Sewell, and Linda and John Luxford of Sewell; her beloved sister Peggy Anobile of Pittsburgh; the pride and joy of her life, grandchildren Jacqueline Harris, Johnny Rowland, Michael Harris, Andrew Rowland, Christian Luxford, and Nicole Luxford; her beautiful great-grandchildren, Lila and Leo Luxford; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Robert Pardi (Enis) of North Scituate, RI, sister-in-law Etta Mello of West Warwick, RI, and cousin Dr. Vincent Lopardo of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Phyllis was the heart and soul of her family and a cherished friend to many. Her life was defined by love, kindness, generosity, humility, compassion, and hospitality. She had a wonderful sense of humor and believed that a cup of coffee could solve any problem.
Phyllis was a true matriarch. At family events, whether they were birthday celebrations, vacations in the Outer Banks, or impromptu get-togethers, Phyllis was the center of the activity. A wonderful cook and the consummate hostess, her focus was always directed toward the family. Her beautiful smile, her willingness to listen, her encouraging words, and her warm hugs will be remembered always.

The family wishes to recognize the Tapestries staff of the United Methodist Communities at Pitman for the skill, respect, kindness, good humor, and positive attitude they demonstrated in caring for Phyllis and for the support they provided her family. The family is very grateful that Phyllis lived her final years in such a loving, safe environment.

There will be a viewing at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME in RUNNEMEDE from 7:00 to 9:00 pm on Sunday, April 7, and from 9:00 to 10:00 am on Monday, April 8, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 at the Church of the Holy Family, 226 Hurffville Rd. in Sewell, NJ. Entombment will be at New St. Mary Cemetery and Mausoleum in Bellmawr.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) in Phyllis's name.

Tributes

Robert Lopardo wrote on Apr 9, 2024:

"My father, sisters, and I send our love to Phyllis? beautiful family. We know how deep this loss must be for each of them. Phyllis was so nurturing, kind and funny - a beautiful person inside and out. When my siblings and I were children we couldn?t wait for her to visit us at my grandmother's house. And for my dad and his two brothers, as their first cousin, Phyllis was loved like a sister. She was so attentive to all of us and her love for us was sincere. As we grew up, Phyllis remained a loving constant in our lives. Her generosity was a model to how each of us should live our lives. I have to mention her beautiful smile that lit up the room, so full of warmth. And by the way, no one was a better cook than she was! How we loved those big Italian meals at her house! I will carry her love with me for the rest of my life. "

Ross Taylor wrote on Apr 6, 2024:

"Donna, Anita, Linda, and familes; My deepest condolences for your loss. Phyllis, who I remember meeting in the late 1970's was so friendly and caring. As our homes were built and our children were born, her Smile grew and grew! Your video shows Happiness."

Gerald & Lynn Zeoli wrote on Apr 3, 2024:

"Thinking of you all during this time of loss. What a wonderful tribute for your mom, who loved life and her family. May you find peace and comfort as you move forward. "

Catherine Gallagher wrote on Apr 2, 2024:

"The end of an era. Although her departure leaves an empty space in our world, her beautiful spirit lives on in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was ever a source of love, devotion and compassion. May she enjoy her heavenly life as she did her earthly one. "

Victoria McCloe wrote on Apr 2, 2024:

"I am so sorry for your loss and pray that God will comfort you in your time of sorrow. My prayers and condolences are with you and your family, she was a beautiful lady and dear friend I miss our talks over coffee and biscotti ??"