Avid traveler who loved poetry
MELROSE — Phyllis E. (Shaw) Blacklock, a cherished member of the Melrose community, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, October 29 at Lahey Hospital in Burlington. She was 80.
Phyllis was born on February 10, 1944, in Winchester, the daughter of George Benjamin and Olive Berthanna (Woods) Shaw. She grew up in Woburn and held the distinction of being the valedictorian of Woburn High School’s Class of 1961 before pursuing her passion for literature at Tufts University where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English.
It was at a dance where Phyllis met her beloved husband Bob and their union on April 18, 1970 marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together. They chose Melrose as the place to raise their family, a decision that Phyllis embraced wholeheartedly.
She was a dedicated member of the Unitarian Universalist Church finding solace in her faith and contributing tirelessly to various church committees throughout the years. She belonged to the Woburn Unitarian Church from birth-1980 and belonged to the Melrose Unitarian Universalist Church from 1980 on.
Prior to focusing on her role as a loving mother, Phyllis shared her knowledge and passion for the English language as a teacher at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School. Later, she found fulfillment in her role as a writer for the Tufts Alumni Magazine showcasing her talent and creativity with the written word.
Phyllis’s intellectual curiosity knew no bounds and she engaged in countless community activities including memberships in the Melrose Wakefield Branch of the American Association of University Women and the Melrose League of Women Voters. She also generously dedicated her time to public relations for the Visiting Nurses Association embodying a spirit of compassion and service.
An avid traveler, Phyllis found joy in exploring historical sites, diverse cultures and the scenic beauty of the Maine coast and the Atlantic Provinces. She also traveled to various European countries with her family thanks to Bob’s employment at Trans World Airlines. She had a deep appreciation for the art of poetry often indulging in her love for writing verses that reflected her soulful nature.
Phyllis was a loving light to many. May her love of family, friends and a good conversation live on in those blessed to know and love her.
Phyllis was the beloved wife of Robert M. Blacklock with whom she shared 54 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Sonya J. Landry and her husband Stephen of Woburn and the late son Duane E. Blacklock. Loving grandmother to Evan T. Landry and Benjamin C. Landry. Loving cousin of Victoria Massaro of Woburn, Roger Woods of Lowell and Mary Ethel Andrews and her husband Erick of Jefferson. Also survived by many loving second and third cousins.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather in honor of Phyllis’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, November 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. and for her celebration of life service at the Melrose Unitarian Universalist Church, 70 W. Emerson St., Melrose on Saturday, November 16 at 11 a.m. Gifts in memory of Phyllis may be made to the American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852. For online tribute visit robinsonfuneralhome.com.
