Anyone who met Phyllis Elaine Saunders knew her as a woman with a generous spirit and quick wit.  Her humor, sarcasm, and straight-faced teasing could catch you off guard and leave you laughing out loud.  As a loving and loyal friend, Phyllis was someone you could always count on for support, encouragement, and the truth (even when it hurt). 

In her work as a librarian, Phyllis touched countless people and she particularly loved instilling a love of reading and imagination among children.  Her career began in the public library system in New York City and her last role was as the manager of the Hamilton branch of the Arizona public library system in Chandler, AZ.  She was well-known for her innovative and popular library events and fun after-hours themed gatherings like  Game of Thrones and murder mystery programming.  She received several awards for her achievements including the 2001 Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) Sagebrush award. 

Phyllis will be greatly missed by her family, friends, colleagues, students, and many others who had the opportunity to cross paths with her.  To honor her memory and her love of literature, we are raising funds for the library of her alma mater -The Bronx High School of Science - where a commemorative plaque  will be installed in recognition of our dear friend.