Phyllis Burke

Phyllis Ann DeStefano Burke, 85 of Lake Charles, Louisiana and formerly Albany, New York and Naples, Florida passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on September 21, 2026.

A native of Amsterdam, New York, Phyllis graduated from St. Mary's Academy and SUNY Oswego with a degree in early childhood education. A well respected educator for over thirty years, she spent the majority of her career teaching 5th grade at The Hebrew Academy of the Capital District. In later years she earned her certification to teach English as a second language and volunteered her time teaching adults in both Albany, New York and Naples, Florida. A lifelong learner, Phyllis enjoyed reading, gardening, playing Mah Jongg and enjoying a glass of wine with her friends. She spent many happy years at The Madrid Club in Naples , Florida where she served on the social committee and played multiple weekly games of Mah Jongg with her close group of friends who called themselves the "Fab 5" Eventually, Phyllis moved to Louisiana to be close to her family. She was instrumental in the formation of the Edgemont Mah Jongg group, using her teaching skills to teach her neighbors the game with patience and humor. Phyllis was fiercely loyal, kind and generous. She loved her family and friends who became family with her whole heart.

She was predeceased by her parents, Angelina and Antonio DeStefano and her loving and devoted husband of 51 years,Terence J. Burke. She is survived by her daughter, Erin Burke Lang (Stephen), cherished granddaughters, Clara, Audrey, and Margaret Lang, her brother, Anthony DeStefano (Linda) and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Those who wish to remember Phyllis in a meaningful way may make a memorial contribution to the St. Nicholas Center for Children, 4066 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605.