On July 28, 2024, Phyllis Ann Hildenbrand nee Matthew, of Pine Bush, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, after her battle with lung cancer. She was 71.
Phyllis was born on April 18, 1953, to the late Angela Flynn Matthew and Edward Matthew in Brooklyn, NY. She grew up in Hollis Queens, NY, where she would meet her future husband, Chris Hildenbrand. Phyllis worked for NY Life Insurance Co. before starting her family and was a devoted wife and mother to her sons Christian and James Hildenbrand. Her devotion was tested when James was born with spinal bifida and several other medical issues. She stood with James through all his struggles, and still found time for her family.
After a time living in Ozone Park Queens, NY, the family moved upstate to a sleepy little town called Pine Bush. It was here in Pine Bush, James became sick and was hospitalized for a year. Phyllis was tested again, going to the hospital everyday to spend time with James and still devoting herself to her family. When James came home from the hospital, he required full time care, Phyllis filled in whenever there was no nurse coverage. Eventually she began working for Rite Aid Pharmacy. She helped many customers to navigate the nightmare of insurance and bureaucracy, after having dealt with it for years herself. Through Rite Aid, Phyllis obtained her Pharmacy Technician Certification. She worked for Rite Aid, then Walgreens, for a total of 22 years before she retired. Phyllis spent her retired years collecting and watching all things horror movie related. She also enjoyed her weekly trips with her brother William. She also loved playing with her kitty, Princess Smokey. Phyllis is survived by her husband Chris Hildenbrand, son Christian Hildenbrand, kitty Princess Smokey, older brothers Edward (Rosemary) Matthew, Richard Matthew, William Matthew, Thomas (Patricia) Matthew. She was proceeded in death by her parents Edward and Angela Matthew, her younger brother, Vincent Matthew, and her beloved son James Hildenbrand who she joins in heaven and God’s loving embrace.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date. To leave an online condolence, please visit: wmgaganfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc