Phyllis Elizabeth "Phillie" (Gangi) Markgren, 64, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Lowell General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Lowell on January 2, 1962, and was the daughter of Phyllis (Convery) Gangi of Lowell and the late Thomas Gangi. Phyllis was raised and educated in Lowell and was a proud graduate of Greater Lowell Technical High School.
Phyllis had a deep love for music, especially country and western, and could often be found dancing and enjoying time with those around her. She had a special fondness for children and found great joy in caring for them. Known for her kind and generous heart, Phyllis was always giving, often insisting that others take whatever they needed, simply because she wanted to see people happy. Her warmth, compassion, and selflessness made her truly one of a kind.
She was a fiercely loyal and protective sister, always standing up for and supporting her family. Above all else, she cherished her children, siblings, and the close bonds she shared with them.
Phyllis is survived by her children, John Russell Markgren and his wife, Miles Pajarillo of Hudson, NH; Kevin Joseph Markgren and his companion Meghan Burns of Townsend; and David Michael Markgren of Lowell and his longtime girlfriend Sok Hoeun of Chelmsford; her grandchildren, Chloe Raven Markgren, John Russell Markgren of Hudson, NH; Nathaniel Thomas Markgren, Alyson Marie Markgren, and Benjamin Patrick Markgren of Townsend.
She also leaves her beloved siblings, Janice Elaine Wesson and her husband Robert of Hudson, NH; Thomas Gangi Jr. and his wife Martha of Alexandria, VA; Joseph Anthony Gangi of Lowell; and Anthony Stephen Gangi of Lowell, along with many dear friends who will miss her greatly.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her calling hours on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 2:00 until 5:00 PM at the McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, MA 01852.
Her funeral will take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, in the funeral home at 11:00 AM, followed by a procession for burial at St. Patrick Cemetery.