Phyllis (Asnes) Marks, a beloved matriarch and cherished presence in the lives of all who knew her, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, in Randolph, Massachusetts. She was 91 years old.
Born on May 8, 1934, in Boston, Massachusetts, Phyllis was the daughter of a close-knit family and carried the values of love and connection throughout her life. She attended the Woodward School for Girls and graduated from Forsyth Dental School in 1954. Phyllis went on to enjoy a fulfilling career as a dental hygienist for over three decades, retiring only in her seventies—a testament to her dedication and work ethic, although raising her family was her most greatest accomplishment.
Phyllis shared an extraordinary 61 years of marriage with her devoted and loving husband, Ronald “Ronnie” Marks, who predeceased her. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. They were inseparable partners who delighted in traveling, hosting holidays, dining out, and creating lifelong friendships. Their home was always open to family and friends, serving as the heart of many joyous gatherings.
A true matriarch, Phyllis was the heart of her family for which everything revolved. Her warmth and generosity were unmatched; she had an infectious laugh that could light up any room and an effusive wave that made everyone feel welcome. Known affectionately as “Phyl,” “Ma,” or “Grammy,” she was the first person her loved ones turned to for news or updates about life’s milestones. No birthday, anniversary or special occasion went unrecognized—Phyllis always had a card and stamp ready to send with her signature thoughtfulness.
Phyllis found immense joy in spending time with her family. She is survived by her children: Dana Marks; Jerry Marks and Kristin Marks; Dave Marks and his wife Gina; and Lisa Chazan and her husband Craig. Her grandchildren – Ashleigh Hall and her husband James, Allie Marks, Brooke Chazan, Zoe Chazan, Emily Chazan, Matthew Marks, and Nicholas Marks were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her beloved brother Howard Asnes as well as many loving nieces and nephews from the Asnes family.
Her hobbies reflected her vibrant personality and zest for life. Phyllis was a lifelong member of Hadassah and participated actively in mahjong clubs, bowling leagues, card games, cooking and baking endeavors, Scrabble matches, and charitable giving. For many years up until recently, she looked forward to monthly trips to Foxwoods with her brother Howard—a tradition that brought them both great joy.
Dining out was another passion for Phyllis; she was a true food connoisseur who relished meals shared with loved ones. Weekly lunches with Dave, birthday celebrations with Dana, breakfasts with Lisa, and Wednesday night takeout dinners with Jerry were among her most treasured moments.
Phyllis’s legacy is one of selflessness, kindness, generosity, and love. She embodied the role of “life of the party” while remaining deeply grounded in what mattered most: family. Grammy, Ma, Phyl, was always the first to be called to share news, updates and details about life’s happenings. Phyllis was the center of every family gathering, event or celebration —always impeccably dressed with lipstick applied and hair styled.
In addition to Ronnie’s passing before hers, Phyllis was predeceased by Kathy Marks (daughter-in-law). Despite these losses, she continued to be a beacon of strength for those she held dear.
May Phyllis’s memory serve as an enduring source of comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her remarkable spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched so profoundly.
A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 1:45 PM at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA. Those attending services should meet behind the administration building on the cemetery grounds prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to Hadassah, 40 Wall Street, New York, NY 10005, Donor Services Helpline 800.928.0685, http://www.hadassah.org or a charitable organization of your choice.
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