Phyllis M. Aldrich

Phyllis Mary Claflin Aldrich was born on September 21, 1929, in West Upton, MA to Russel Wilfred Claflin and Mary Elizabeth (Woollcott). She was predeceased by two brothers, Charles and John Claflin, and three half-siblings; Russell Claflin Jr., Dorothy Rapko, and James Claflin.

She grew up in the Mendon/Blackstone area, with much of her early life with her Granny. Phyllis graduated from Blackstone High School soon after World War II. She taught Sunday School at the Blackstone Federated Church and on Thanksgiving evening, November 24, 1949, she married Francis L. Aldrich at the church.

The couple briefly lived in Syracuse, NY, and then Upton, MA until moving to Manchester, CT in the mid 1950's and remained married until Francis' passing on September 12, 1996. Phyllis is survived by her three children, Deborah G. Deptula, and her husband Richard of Budd Lake, NJ; James D. Aldrich and his wife Jeanne of Bolton, CT and Rev. Douglas F. Aldrich and his wife Verna of Barkhamsted, CT. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Kathryn Aldrich;  Sarah Aldrich Hryniewicz and her husband Jonathan Hryniewicz; Captain Matthew Deptula; and Rebekah Aldrich.

Phyllis was, for over 50 years, a parishioner and active member of Center Congregational Church in Manchester, CT where she served as a deaconess and taught Sunday School.  She supported the local Girl and Cub Scouts troops and Boy Scout Troop 25. Phyllis was also active in the Claflin Family Association for many years, attending family meetings and luncheons in Massachusetts, chiefly supporting the work of her daughter Deb, who was an active officer and President for the Association.

She was a devoted mother to her three children, and a pillar of strength to her family. She was busy as a stay-at-home mom until her children were grown. At age 58 she began a 31 year career as the office manager at Aldrich Construction Company. Phyllis was there at the infancy of the company and played a key role in the growth and success of the firm.  She was meticulous in her work, and was well-respected by all who were fortunate enough to associate with her. Phyllis was also well liked by all, including employees, customers, and the many people she met throughout her career.  

Phyllis’s top priority was always her family.  She was always in close touch with all her children and had close relationships with all her grandchildren.  She was a beloved mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed by all her family.

Phyllis passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 in the comfort of her own home. She was 93 years old.

 A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at Center Church on 11 Center Street, Manchester, at 11:00 AM. Calling hours, also at the church, will be before the service from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. All are welcomed to attend.

Memorial donations may be made to Second Congregational Church, 800 Main Street, Winsted, CT  06098.

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