Phyllis Hawes-Hinton

Phyllis Hawes-Hinton, cherished wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away on September 21, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness. Born on February 18, 1954, in Passaic, New Jersey, Phyllis graced the world with her warmth, intellect, and indomitable spirit. The beloved daughter of PM and Essie Hawes, Phyllis was the eighth of ten children, a dynamic presence in a large and loving family. Predeceased by her parents, brother John Zellars, sisters Elizabeth Tinnie McNair, Catherine Mouchie Ferguson, and Lois Mann, along with her grandmother Lena Pittman and beloved Aunt Leatha Collins, Phyllis held the memories of her departed family members close to her heart. Educated in the Passaic District, Phyllis graduated from Passaic High School in 1972. She was known for her grace and poise, having been a Prom Queen candidate and participant in the Miss Passaic County Pageant. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Passaic County Community College, where she earned a Secretarial Certificate and showcased her innovative spirit by creating a Computer Geeks Newsletter. Phyllis's professional life was marked by dedication and excellence. She began her career as a receptionist at Uncle Leo's Tri-City Limousine Service and later thrived at Spiegals Real Estate Office, where she earned a Real Estate Certificate and became a Co-Realtor. Her time at the Textile Factory in Passaic, NJ, was notable for her linguistic accomplishments, as she self-taught and spoke Hindi and Gujarati, enriching her role as a section leader. Phyllis concluded her career at Triple AAA Travel, where her exceptional organizational skills and customer service shone brightly as she planned and executed field trips across New Jersey. Beyond her professional achievements, Phyllis found joy in simple pleasures and lifelong passions. She was an ardent reader, particularly fond of Agatha Christie novels, and delighted in visiting museums and libraries. Her husband, Lester, fondly recalls her as a "walking history book." B-I-N-G-O was a favorite pastime, providing many cherished moments of fun and camaraderie. Phyllis's greatest joy, however, was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Lester Hinton; her beloved children, Melissa Hawes Isom and Matthew; grandchildren Develyn, Deja, and their children; and her son Maurico Hawes. Her siblings, Harvey Hawes, Brenda Hawes, Vernon Hawes, Craig Hawes, and Frances Hawes, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, will forever cherish her memory. A celebration of Phyllis's life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the DAV Center, 522 Paulisen Avenue, Passaic, NJ 07055. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association and the Cure Alzheimer's Fund, organizations that held special significance for Phyllis. Phyllis Hawes-Hinton's encouraging spirit, unwavering kindness, and boundless love will remain in our hearts forever. As her family lovingly expressed, "To God Be The Glory."