Phyllis Leavitt
1921 – 2009
AUBURN — Phyllis Leavitt, 88, of 462 Lake St., Auburn, died July 11, at her home after a lengthy illness.
She was born April 28, 1921, in Madison, the daughter of Perley and Mildred Bryant. An exceptional student, she graduated valedictorian of her high school class, and was later elected to Phi Beta Kappa at the University of Maine, where she earned a degree in romance languages.
In 1942, she married Booth Leavitt, her high school sweetheart. The war years were spent living in various southern states. Upon Booth’s graduation from dental school at the University of Maryland in 1951, the couple then settled in Auburn.
She was a gifted pianist, and her talents were greatly appreciated by friends, family and the community. She and her husband, a violinist, made beautiful music together, and instilled in their daughters a tremendous appreciation for classical music. She was also an admirer of antiques with a particular interest in English antiques and glassware, all of which were on display in her home.
A love for animals was her passion, and she was a generous and enthusiastic supporter of animal rights and welfare.
Survivors include her two daughters, Barbara McGivaren of Auburn and Portland and her caregiver; Jane Daly and her husband, John, of Auburn; a grandson, Booth McGivaren of Auburn and Portland; a granddaughter, Katherine Daly Miles and her husband, Matthew, of Cambridge, Mass; two nieces; two nephews; and her cat, Frannie.
She was predeceased by her husband, Booth in 2005; and a sister, Barbara Almy in 1991.
The family wishes to thank the entire staff of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice for their support and compassionate care.