Phyllis A. Rudolph Obituary
Phyllis Ann Rudolph passed away peacefully on May 10th, 2025, surrounded by her husband and children. Born on July 22nd, 1936, she was the devoted wife of Archibald MacLeod Rudolph and the beloved mother of Terry Ann Brackett (married to Charles Brackett), Pamela Ann Orlando (married to Andrew Orlando), Archibald MacLeod Rudolph Jr., and the late Deborah Ann Rudolph.
Earlier in life, Phyllis worked at the Tic Toc in Gloucester where she met her husband, Archie. Phyllis and Archie owned several businesses over the years, most memorably The Coffee Shop in Rockport, Massachusetts, which they ran together for 19 years. The Coffee Shop was a beloved fixture in the community, and Phyllis was at its heart — greeting customers with warmth, kindness and her signature wit. Even after ownership passed to her son Archie, Phyllis continued to work there, serving the community for a remarkable total of 32 years. Generations of customers from all over the world returned year after year just to see her familiar smile. The Coffee Shop is presently known as Brothers Brew, which is now run by her daughter Terry Brackett and her husband Chuckie and their two sons, Marc and Ross.
Phyllis was a passionate dancer, an avid reader, a fierce puzzle solver and she always enjoyed a good game of cards and cribbage. Phyllis was also a very talented knitter, creating beautiful sweaters and afghans for many years. As a couple, Phyllis and Archie enjoyed hosting themed parties almost every weekend in their basement that they converted into a dance hall, complete with a disco ball and a dance floor. In addition to this fun at home, they enjoyed travelling throughout the years, including a meaningful trip to Italy to reconnect with family and her heritage.
The holidays were always a magical time with Phyllis, especially Christmas, which she made unforgettable year after year. Her home was the heart of every celebration — filled with laughter, family and the comforting aroma of her home cooked feast. In addition to holidays, Phyllis hosted her family every Sunday for many years. These moments left a lasting imprint on her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will always remember the love, fun and festivity she poured into every gathering.
Phyllis was the core of our family, a steady, loving presence whose strength held us all together. She will be deeply missed by all those who loved her.
She is survived by her husband, Archibald MacLeod Rudolph; her children, Terry Ann Brackett (Charles), Pamela Ann Orlando (Andrew), Archibald Macleod Rudolph Jr.; her cherished sister, Francis (Cheena) Favaloro; her grandchildren, Mark Brackett (Kylah), Ross Brackett (Sheena), Andrew Orlando (Amanda), Alexandria Goncalves (Jimmy), and Adam Rudolph. She also leaves behind many beloved great-grandchildren, Joseph, Nicholas, Ava, Gianna, Kevin, Cameron, Nolan, Lillian, Easton, and Milo.
Phyllis also had many nieces and nephews who adored her as much as she adored them.
She was predeceased by her parents, Domenic and Grace (Lucido) Barbagallo; her treasured daughter, Deborah Ann Rudolph; sisters, Sadie Demetri, Elizabeth White, Rose Dagle and her brother, Joseph Barbagallo.
Her visiting hours will be held in St. Ann's Church, Holy Family Parish on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. followed by a Mass celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Gloucester.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to Friends of Seacoast, P.O. Box 1578, Gloucester, MA 01930.
