Phyllis Mary (Arslen) Saffer, a multi-talented communicator and devoted mother, passed from this life at home Friday, May 9th at the age of 102 surrounded by her grateful and loving family. She was widowed in 2003 with the passing of her beloved husband of 62 years, Kasper Aaron Saffer, founding owner of Kay’s Barber Shop, first in the city to hire women barbers.
The daughter of Theodore and Mary (Baptist) Arslen, Phyllis was born in Worcester and prized learning throughout her long life. She leaves two daughters, Leslie Gwynne Saffer and Pamella C. Saffer of Worcester and Pam’s partner, Jeff Fuller of New Haven, CT. Predeceased by her siblings, Estelle Arslen Sneade and Kenneth T. Arslen, Sr., Phyllis is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews.
An inveterate student, Phyllis received her diploma from Worcester Junior College and certificate from Salter Secretarial School before working as a medical secretary for two city physicians. After graduating from Leland Powers School of Radio Theatre and Television, she taught elocution and directed local community theatre productions.
Phyllis went on to study at Emerson College where, in 1976, she was awarded a B.S. in Speech with Honors. After attending Worcester State College, she received her M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Anna Maria College in 1979. Following a decade of service as a speech therapist, Phyllis retired from the Worcester Public Schools and remained a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association.
A life-long Worcester resident, Phyllis kept a special place in her compassionate heart for animals and children, with room left for the arts and literature. A proud Assyrian woman, she was a member of the women’s choir at St. Mary’s Assyrian Apostolic Church in Worcester and lent her design skills to staging the church’s annual fundraising bazaars.
A kind, poetic, endearing soul, Phyllis’ wit, humor, charm and engaging warmth touched many lives well into her later years. She will be remembered for her intelligence, creativity, gutsy determination and compassion for all of life. Not to mention her enthusiastic devotion to the Boston Celtics. May her dear soul rest in peace.
Phyllis’ family offers special thanks to the incomparably kind staff of JHC Hospice and Gyoung Sun Jang, Phyllis’ personal care attendant. Those who wish to join the celebration of Phyllis’ life are invited to perform a simple act of kindness in her memory. Alternately, some may choose to support initiatives that make life better and promote peace. Options may include Worcester Animal Rescue League, Save the Children, the Center for Nonviolent Solutions and St. Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Church.
In keeping with Phyllis’ wishes for simplicity, the family will hold a private graveside ceremony to celebrate her life. With gratitude to O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester for assisting with arrangements.