Obituary

Phyllis Cortello Martin passed away on Thursday July 1, 2021 in Covington, LA. She was born on October 20, 1922 in New Orleans, LA to the late Salvadore Joseph Cortello and Gertrude Lacey Cortello. Phyllis was the beloved wife of Harold Albert Martin, Jr. She was the loving mother of Lynne LaRussa (Dennis), Robert Martin (Donna), and Thomas Martin. Phyllis was the proud grandmother of Stacy Foster (Frank), Brad Martin, Dennis LaRussa (Ara), and great-grandmother of Margaret Rose and Enzo Foster. She was the sister of Frank Cortello, Joseph Cortello and Sal Cortello. A dedicated educator, Phyllis taught for over 30 years as an elementary school teacher between St Dominic's School in New Orleans, New Orleans Public Schools, and Our Lady of the Lake School in Mandeville, LA. Phyllis earned her college degree from St. Mary's Dominican College in 1979. In recognition of her teaching excellence, she was awarded the St. Louis Medal of Honor as Teacher of the Year by Archbishop Phillip Hannan. After retiring, she teamed with her husband to travel throughout the state founding the first chapters of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Louisiana. In the years since, NAMI has grown to the largest grassroots mental health organization in the nation. Efforts like those championed by Phyllis and Harold offer much needed educational and support networks for families struggling with mental illness. Always a glowing beacon for friends, neighbors, and family alike, she enjoyed walking and playing cards with her group of friends, attending church, and socializing in all manners whether attending large parties or hosting gatherings in her home. She was beloved by all those who came to know her. Phyllis will be deeply missed by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Phyllis may be made to NAMI's St. Tammany Chapter Residence Program. Donations may be mailed to NAMI St. Tammany Residence Program ATTN: Nick Richard P.O. Box 2055 Mandeville, LA 70470. Relatives and friends are invited to the Funeral Mass at St. Anselm Catholic Church, 306 St Mary St, Madisonville, LA 70447 on Wednesday July 7, 2021 at 3:00 PM with visitation from 1:00 PM until service time. Interment will follow the service at St. Joseph Abbey Cemetery 75376 River Road St. Benedict, LA 70457. Please Share a Memory on the Tribute Wall at www.ejfieldingfh.com. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, (985) 892-9222, 2260 West 21st Avenue Covington, LA 70433.