Obituary: Phyllis Quinn Shaner, 85, Of Westport

Information and photo via Shaughnessey-Banks Funeral Home

Phyllis Quinn Shaner passed away at the age of 85 on August 7, 2018, after a final battle with cancer. Phyllis leaves behind a mutually adoring family of six children, four spousal in-laws, and nine grandchildren.

As a resident of Westport for 53 years, her quiet contributions were many, as were her friendships.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, Phyllis’ friendships ran the gamut from childhood friends in Scarsdale, to Marymount (Fordham) College, to whatever activity drew her passion. Many of Phyllis’ local friendships were built
on the sands of her favorite local spot, Burying Hill Beach.

A passion for community led to her involvement with the Greens Farms PTA and the Greens Farms Association. In later years, she joined the Westport Historical Society, and volunteered at Gillespie Center Soup Kitchen, Treasure House at Norwalk Hospital, and for Meals on Wheels.

In addition to Phyllis’ passion for giving back and her joy in playing piano, she had two great avocations: tennis and bridge. The playing partners, for each, evolved over many years and venues, and lasting friendships were forged.

Phyllis had an innate curiosity about people and an ability to talk to anyone about anything, creating relationships not just among her peers – but also from all ages and walks of life. For example, whenever one of her children would bring a friend home, she took the time to get to know them, creating enduring relationships with many of her children’s friends.

Phyllis’s ability to connect with people extended to her professional life as well. Her early career was in advertising at Young & Rubicam. She loved going back to Y&R reunions to reconnect with old coworkers.

Phyllis continued her career while raising her family, working steadily in advertising for local publications during the ‘70’s and ‘80’s. In later years, she worked at the Marketing Corporation of America and RIS
publishing.

While nurturing relationships marked her time in this world, the most precious time was that spent with family. She loved attending theater with family, and card games were regular events. Her love of musical theater made Westport the perfect place to live and raise her children.

Large holiday gatherings were treasured as well as any minute, hour or day of one-on-one time with her children, their spouses, and especially her grandchildren - all whom she adored beyond measure.

Phyllis is survived by son Bill and wife Brynne of New Rochelle NY and their daughters, Morgan and Mallory; daughter Jennifer Bangser and husband Dan of Norwalk and their children, Adam and Kathryn; daughter Susan of Bethel and her daughter, Nikki; daughter Deirdre Griffin of Westport and her children, Kate and Matthew; son Tom and wife Eve of Long Island City and their children, Fiona and Emmet; and daughter Anne and husband Mark Nolan of Brooklyn. She was predeceased by her former husband, William M. Shaner Jr.

In recognition of her deep and abiding faith, a mass celebrating her life will be held at Assumption Church on Riverside Avenue in Westport on Friday, August 24 at 10 a.m., with a luncheon to follow. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis’ memory to Calvary Hospital (1740 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461, Attn: Calvary Fund). Or please donate used clothing and household items to the Treasure House in Norwalk.

She also asked that you reach out and reconnect with someone from long ago.