It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phyllis Rappaport Vadden Zeise; a cherished Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother, Nonna, Aunt and Friend, who left us peacefully on November 25, 2024 at the age of 76 surrounded by her loving family.

Born on October 22, 1948, in Wilmington, Delaware, Phyllis is preceded in death by her parents Samuel and Yolanda Rappaport and her spouse of 11 years, Ingo Zeise.

Phyllis shared a deep bond with her brother, Alan Rappaport. She was a devoted mother to her two cherished daughters: Shannon Uhl and Brooke Terranova, who she took immense pride in their life achievements. A beloved mother-in-law to John Uhl, Benjamin Terranova and sister-in-law, Jeanette DeBright. Her six grandchildren; Griffin and Dawson Uhl, and Benjamin, Michael, Paul and Carmine Terranova were the light of her life. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, lovingly referred to as “Her Bubala’s”.

Born and raised in Delaware, Phyllis’ life has been a mosaic of devotion and achievement. After graduating from Henry C. Conrad High School in 1966, she pursued her higher education at Goldey-Beacom College, setting the stage for a life dedicated to both professional excellence and community engagement.

Phyllis’ early years were marked by a deep commitment to her family, which she nurtured throughout her life. Upon marrying and raising two daughters, Phyllis immersed herself in their educational and extracurricular activities, fostering a strong sense of community and support. As her daughters grew older, Phyllis transitioned to a career in law, where she served as a legal assistant for 17 years. This period of her life showcased her professional acumen and her capacity for detail-oriented work, qualities that would later benefit her in her various volunteer roles.

For over a decade, while she lived in Cecil County with Ingo, her volunteering spirit flourished. Phyllis became a cornerstone of the Ladies Auxiliary of Union Hospital. Her involvement extended beyond simple participation; she embraced the role with passion, dedicating countless hours to improving the quality of life for patients and supporting hospital initiatives.

Her commitment to service did not stop there. Phyllis also became an integral part of the Cecil College community, thanks to her husband Ingo’s longstanding volunteer work with the institution. Phyllis’ connection to Cecil College deepened as she joined the Foundation Board of Directors. Over her nine-year term, she brought a blend of enthusiasm, expertise, and a strategic vision to the role. Her impact was particularly felt in the Fund Development Committee, where she played a crucial role in organizing events that not only engaged the community but also raised essential funds for scholarships and programs. Her return to the Board in 2023 was a testament to her enduring dedication and belief in the Foundation’s mission. This commitment and devotion made her an ideal Mary A. Maloney Distinguished Service Award recipient which was presented to her on September 11^th 2024.

Phyllis was always up for an adventure with her family and friends. She savored life’s experiences, whether it was a trip to Europe, a weekend getaway with friends, a day at the beach with her toes in the sand, “raft-outs” on the Elk River, a night out with dinner, drinks and a Broadway show, cheering on her grandsons at various sporting events or our traditional “Italian Family Gatherings” celebrating the love of family, food and the bond we share. She lived for time spent with those she loved.

As we honor Phyllis’ legacy, we celebrate a life dedicated to family, a tapestry of traditions built upon a foundation of faith, a life lived with loyalty, love, purpose and heart which drew from her strong Italian heritage.  Her professional life was marked by profound service, leadership, a passion for helping others, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Phyllis was a pillar of strength and a source of endless love. Her memory will live on through the stories, laughter, and love she instilled in all of us for generations to come. May her spirit continue to guide and inspire those who were fortunate enough to meet her along life’s journey.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 17^th beginning at 10am at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, 1500 Cedar St, Wilmington, DE 19805, where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow promptly at 11am. Interment will be at Cathedral Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The National Kidney Foundation, a cause close to Phyllis’s heart.

We would like to offer our heartfelt gratitude to our extended family members and friends for their unwavering support. We know how much Phyllis meant to each and every one of you. We also want to acknowledge Shirley DeCostanza, Kathleen DuPuis and Kathleen Smith who were more like “sisters of her heart” than just relatives, offering Phyllis and our family a helping hand, emotional support and unconditional love throughout her lifetime.

The family would also like to thank R.T. Foard Funeral Home for the respect and care they gave to honor Phyllis’s life and legacy.