Dear Ray and Anjelica, I was in Puerto Rico for 6 weeks and did not find out about Phyllis until Sunday when my brother showed me the clipping from the paper and asked if I knew her. Did I know her? She was such an instrumental part in my life when she took me on as her student teacher and had such a profound effect on what kind of teacher I wanted to become. I wanted to live up to her expectations of me; which were high and so I began my career trying to emulate her and make her proud. She was the best teacher and made such a difference in the lives of so many children. I don't know if you remembered this, but they had to start the gifted program in Long Branch because her students that left 2nd grade were so high and off the charts with intelligence when they left her. She individualized to help meet there potential and I was there to witness this genius of a lady! I was so, so fortunate to have Phyllis teach me the ropes. It turns out that she helped give me the drive to become teacher of the year for Lenna Conrow School. But, one of the proudest moments in my teaching career was when Phyllis came to see Anjelica in the “Talent Show” when I taught her. Anjelica, I will always remember your Mom having tears in her eyes when you played the piano; she actually cried and said, “Isn't she amazing?”, and of course I said, yes she certainly is. Then your Mom told me, Marianne, I knew that you were going to be a great teacher, but I didn't think this great.” I will never forget that moment in my career. Someone of Phyllis' caliber in teacher was complimenting me, ME! Somewhere, deep inside, I even knew she was still being my mentor by still making sure I knew that to validate my teaching and confidence. She always watched over her students and I think I was still partly, her student. She always made positive affects on all that knew her. Everyone who knew her, loved her! I am devastated that I missed paying my last respects to such a wonderful woman and friend. I shall memorialize her with prayer and a donation to Family and Children's Services. I now know that all that loved her have a special angel to watch over them. However, if she has left over time from staying in yours and Dad's heart and watching over you. She loved you both so much and you could just tell by her smile when she talked about you. Anjelica, she showed your picture to everybody who was with her long enough to pull it out......she was so proud of you and you were her life; but, of course, you already know that. Please know that I will keep both of you in my prayers along with Phyllis or Mom. Please contact me if I can do anything at all for either of you. Don't feel like cooking one night, please let me bring dinner to your house; anything at all. God Bless you both and have mercy on your pain. Peace With love, Marianne Balesterri or Mrs. Balesterri to you, Anjelica