Phyllis A. (Calcagni) Nigris

89, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2020.  She was predeceased by John Nigris, her loving husband for 54 years.  Phyllis was born the first of three children in Providence to the late Carmella (Fanelli) and Alfred Calcagni and lived in Johnston.  She was a graduate of St. Xavier Academy.  Soon after graduating, she began her over 65 year career in the insurance industry.  Her ambition and passion for the industry, dedication to those with whom she worked and attention to her many clients presented her with the honor over 25 years ago to become a co-owner of Cormack-Ruthier Agency, Inc. where she brought the company to where it is today.

Phyllis was devoted to her large family together with the entire Nigris family.  She is survived by her siblings, George A Calcagni, of Providence and Delores J Calcagni Gagliardi, of Johnston.  Phyllis loved her nieces and nephews greatly and her love will always be with them.  She leaves, G. Alfred Calcagni, Jr., of Providence, Caroline Calcagni of Providence, Bruce G Gagliardi and his wife, Dina A Gagliardi of North Providence.  She was predeceased by her eldest loving niece Alfreda A. Gagliardi.  Her great nieces, Victoria A Gagliardi and Sophia A Calcagni love her dearly.

In addition to her success in business and love for family, Phyllis was a philanthropist.  She was a generous benefactor to St Rocco’s Parish in Johnston where she served as a lector.  She initiated the John Nigris scholarship fund to benefit the students.  Recently, in 2018, at the Alpine Country Club, she was honored by St Rocco’s School for her generosity.  She was a board member of the Ruthier Foundation which supported various charitable causes.  Phyllis enjoyed travelling with her family and friends as well as summering at her home in Narraganset.  She was a gracious hostess for many celebrations for family and work colleagues.  Phyllis was a lovely, strong, determined, ambitious, smart, caring, stylish, wonderful, kind, loving person who will be forever remembered and missed by everyone who knew her.

Due to COVID-19, the funeral and burial will be private.  In 2021, a memorial mass in her memory will be held.