General Information

Full Name: Phyllis Ruth Besen
Date of Death: Sunday, June 29, 2025

Phyllis Besen, of River Edge, passed away on June 29, 2025, at the age of 91. Devoted wife of the late Martin (Marty) Besen. Beloved mother of Claudia and Elizabeth Besen. Loving father-in-law of Norman Klenicki and Peter Frucht. Cherished and adored grandmother of Lily and Rose Besen-McNally and Julian and Genevieve Frucht.

Phyllis was born in Brooklyn and maintained her Brooklyn spirit. She was smart, funny, and full of life. A woman ahead of her time, she graduated from City College of New York in 1954 with a biology degree. She later earned two master’s degrees. Phyllis taught science in the NYC public school system for over four decades.

During retirement, Phyllis discovered her artistic talents, creating and gifting beautiful quilts and beaded jewelry. Phyllis and Marty traveled the world and enjoyed theater, music, ballet, and all things cultural.

Phyllis was immensely proud of her daughters’ and grandchildren’s educational and professional accomplishments. Her grandchildren in particular were the lights of her life.

She will be greatly missed.

Funeral, July 2, 1:30 PM, Kol Dorot, 385 Howland Avenue, River Edge, NJ.

Shiva, July 2, after funeral until 8:00 PM. July 3, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, 674 Bogert Road, River Edge.