On the evening of October 25, 2025, Phyllis Jane [LeBelle] Imbruglio, at the remarkable age of 95, peacefully passed away in her beloved home in Smithfield, RI, surrounded by her loving children.
A proud graduate of Central High School in Providence, RI, class of June 1947, Phyllis was affectionately known as “Phyl.” Her classmates described her as a sweet girl with an infectious personality, always ready to share a smile or a kind word with friends in need. Her keen sense of humor and warm disposition foreshadowed her success in her future endeavors.
To many, Phyl was more than just a name; she was Mom, Sister, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, friend, coworker, and partner. Family was the core of her existence, extending beyond her husband, children, siblings, and parents to embrace anyone who needed love, comfort, or a place at her supper table. For 68 years, the Stillwater Road community—from the top of the hill to Ridge Road and beyond—was her cherished domain. Phyllis welcomed all, ensuring her home was always a refuge, her backyard a playground, and every parent knew their child would be safe in her care.
Her contributions to the community went beyond tending to the sports of neighborhood children; she devoted over 35 years to the 4-H organization, where she held various roles, including club leader for her daughters and their friends. She guided their growth and skill-building through weekly meetings and regional events, ensuring that young girls learned valuable life skills in cooking, sewing, and poise during the 1950s and 1960s.
Phyllis had a zest for life that shone brightly through her many passions and hobbies. Whether passionately cheering on her Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots from the comfort of her couch or meticulously decorating her home with sports memorabilia, her enthusiasm was infectious.
Her love of nature was profound; she was known for nurturing a vibrant bird sanctuary in her yard. She delighted in providing nourishment to her feathered friends, ensuring their feeders were always filled while even accommodating squirrels with their own dedicated peanut buffet. Flowers brightened her world, as she cultivated resilient gardens that thrived through storms and droughts, bringing beauty indoors as well.
As her family grew, so did Phyllis's devotion to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished watching them grow, attending their events, celebrating their accomplishments, and capturing every moment with pride in a plethora of photographs.
Phyllis was a devoted servant of the Lord, following the principles of the Christian Science faith. She regularly attended various services, most recently at the First Church of Christ, Scientist in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Throughout her life, she served her church in many capacities, with a special fondness for teaching Sunday school. The joy she found in sharing lessons with children was mirrored in the sparkle of her eyes, as she sought out special treasures to enhance their learning experience.
Her son, Michael, and three daughters, Jane Drechsler, Deborah Palmer, and Donna O’Rourke, along with eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as countless individuals, who lovingly referred to her as “MOM”, survive her. Her husband of 67 years, John David Imbruglio, and her son, Paul John Imbruglio, preceded Phyllis in death. Known as the neighborhood mom, she comforted and assisted all who stepped through her door, embodying strength and compassion that rippled through her community. She was a magnificent mother, a true friend, and a faithful follower of Jesus—a woman who brought joy to every life she touched.
A gathering and memorial service will take place at the Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville, Rhode Island 02828, on November 8, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. IF using GPS, use: 2 Church St, Greenville RI 02828. A private interment will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you honor Phyllis's memory through acts of kindness and charity. Rather than quick gestures, they encourage heartfelt, intentional actions that create a lasting difference. Take the time to understand the needs of others and respond with genuine empathy. Create a “Phyllis jar,” documenting your acts of kindness and reflecting on how to improve each time. Let her spirit inspire you to spread love and warmth in the world, just as she did.