Obituary of Phyllis Arlene Draghi
Phyllis Watson Draghi, 88, of Glastonbury, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday May 1, 2026. With a heart full of love and unwavering faith, she gently walked into the arms of Jesus.
Phyllis was born on June 4, 1937, in Philadelphia, PA to Elizabeth Franklin and Frank Watson. She spent many cherished summers with her grandparents, “Mumsie” and “Pop-Pop” at their camp on the Jersey Shore, where she developed a lifelong love of the ocean.
Phyllis was the beloved wife of the late Peter Draghi. Together, they dedicated themselves to their farms, including Draghi Brothers in South Glastonbury, Hillside Orchards in Zionsville, PA and Peter Draghi Farm in East Windsor, CT. Phyllis had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, and customers often returned not just for the farm, but for her warm and welcoming smile.
Phyllis devoted her life to being a loving caregiver for her family. She is survived by her cherished daughters, Suzanne (Darby) Bedell and fiancé Paul Jenkins, of Glastonbury, CT and Deborah (Darby) Bailey and husband John Bailey of Columbia, CT; devoted stepson, Gary Draghi of South Windsor, CT; and her sister Dale Luetjen with whom she shared a lifelong and enduring bond. She was predeceased by her husband Peter Draghi, her son, James Darby Jr. of Rockville, CT and her former husband James Darby Sr., with whom she shared her three children. She is also predeceased by sons-in-law, Frank Bedell Jr. and Bert Roy.
Phyllis leaves behind her three grandchildren Lindsey Bedell of Boston, MA, Rory Bedell and his wife Anna of Uncasville, CT; and Ann Bailey and her husband Aron of Iceland. She was a proud great-grandmother to Ezra Johnston and Mazzy Bedell, who will forever cherish their “Gigi.” She also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family and dear friends whose lives were brightened by her kindness.
As a devoted member of First Congregational Church of East Windsor, Phyllis was active in Bible study and Sunday services, forming many meaningful friendships.
Phyllis cherished time spent with loved ones, taking drives to the shoreline, dining out and dreaming up the next adventure she could go on with her friends. Phyllis was an avid UCONN basketball and Red Sox fan.
Phyllis was a generous, sweet, and graceful woman who found joy in caring for others. Her home was always open, her table always full, and her heart always ready to give. She will be deeply missed, but her love will continue to live on in the traditions she created and the family she cherished.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 8 from 4 to 6 at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury. A funeral service will be held on Saturday May 9 at 11am at First Church of Christ Congregational, 2183 Main St., Glastonbury. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. For the complete obituary notice and online condolences please visit www.mulryanfh.com. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to CT Foodshare.