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Phyllis Kaercher

Phyllis Mancini Kaercher, born on Aug. 17, 1934, passed away peacefully in her home on Oct. 22, 2024. Born in New Haven and raised in the Morris Cove section of New Haven, she was a resident of North Haven from 1957 until her death. She is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Walter Kaercher.

Phyllis held a Bachelor’s degree from UConn, and both a Master’s degree and a sixth year degree from Southern Connecticut State University. She had been accepted to Princeton Law School after receiving her Bachelor’s, but didn’t attend for a variety of reasons. However, she dedicated herself to teaching, and generations were better for that. She ended her career as the leader of the Social Studies Department at Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford. As her department members said, “She always had our backs.”

Phyllis was active in both civic and religious groups. A proud Democrat, Catholic, and then Congregationalist, she believed it was her duty and fortune to make the world a better place. She was fiercely self-determined: if she wanted to do something, she did, and if she were disinclined, she simply didn’t. She loved animals and, throughout her life, had many cats, dogs, and other pets. Phyllis was a devoted UConn fan and loved and was loved by her friends and family.

In addition to her husband, Walter, Phyllis leaves her children: Walter Kaercher Jr. and his wife, Kori, Marisa Esposito, and John Esposito and his wife, Melody. She also leaves three granddaughters whom she loved deeply and of whom she was very proud: Mariana Santiago, Alexa Esposito, and her wife, Sammi, and Haley Kaercher. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her loving parents and eight siblings.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Animal Haven, 89 Mill Road, North Haven, CT, 06473. A memorial service will occur at a later date. Burial will be private. The Havens Family North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, have been entrusted with her arrangements. www.northhavenfuneral.com.