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Former La Conner resident Phyllis died at age 77 on Monday, October 5 surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.

Phyllis was born on June 23, 1938 in Greenwich, CT to James and Mary Montanaro. She married Robert L. Hunt on January 11, 1958 in Clifford, Pennsylvania.

She was a devoted wife and mother but truly glowed with joy for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they played with “Grandma’s Toy Box” at her feet over the years.

All who knew Phyllis knew that her love of the Christmas season was limitless. She loved watching Olympic ice skating as well as gymnastics and was a formidable “Jeopardy” opponent to anyone in the family’s living room over the years.

Phyllis is also remembered by many as a talented dressmaker and sewing artist. From prom dresses and wedding gowns to custom clothing, she could make or alter virtually anything. Her creativity was also seen in costumes for children’s plays and countless lovingly knitted sweaters, hats and mittens.

Phyllis’ hospitality is remem-bered by friends and family alike. She made others feel welcome and was considered by some to be a second mother. She had a tireless energy that could be seen in countless hours of volunteering for a variety of PTA roles, Cub Scout den mother, Blue Bird leader, and a one-time Little League coach.

With her friends, she helped create the La Conner Community Halloween Carnival in the place she and her family called home for many years. She was heavily involved in her community, shared her talents with many over the years, made more than a few midnight trips to the ER between four kids, and took great pride in being a Navy wife for almost two decades.

Phyllis was truly a lady of many causes. She cared passionately for women’s rights and held Eleanor Roosevelt in high regard. She believed strongly in being a lifelong learner and encouraged others to do the same.

She is survived by Robert L. Hunt, her husband and best friend of over 57 years. She also leaves their children Michelle Cave (Douglas), Robert Hunt (Michelle), Deborah Grant (Eric) and James Hunt (Deborah); her sisters Patricia DiBlasi and Judith Wells; 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made to Evergreen Hospice Center c/o Evergreen Healthcare Foundation; 12040 NE 128th St., MS 5, Kirkland, WA, 98034-3013.A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 17 at the Edmonds Senior Center at 220 Railroad Avenue from 1 to 4 p.m.