It is with profound sorrow that we bid farewell to a true luminary, our dear friend, Phyllis Sandler. Phyllis was a true Wonder Woman, an Eshet Chayil (“woman of valor” in Hebrew) in our community and well beyond. She was a beautiful and kind soul who was always happy to lend a helping hand to many individuals and organizations.
Phyllis was no ordinary woman — she was an extraordinary force for good, accomplishing greatness on myriad levels. A beacon of light, she had the remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel special, leaving an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to have known her.
Alongside her beloved husband Harvey, of blessed memory, she was a trailblazer in our community for decades. Their commitment to building a strong Jewish community for all and their unwavering support for the greater Boca Raton community left an enduring legacy now carried forth by their children: Robin & Gary Rubin, Amy & David Ross, Larry & Andrea Schnurmacher, Ricky & Melissa Sandler, Andrew & Aurily Sandler, as well as their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Always carrying a deep understanding of the needs of others, Phyllis & Harvey were the founders, benefactors and creators of the Adolph & Levis Levis JCC’s Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center. This hub of art, culture and learning stands as a testament to their vision, providing a space where adults of all ages can continue to learn, grow and live their best lives as they age.
Their love and support radiated throughout the community, touching lives through their generosity to the Levis JCC, Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Baptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital and Florida Atlantic University.
The Boca Raton Observer extends its deepest condolences to Phyllis' family and friends. Personally, I will miss Phyllis, her beautiful smile, kind heart, intelligence and wit. I know that her and Harvey’s legacy is continued through her fabulous family. I will think of her every time I enter a building that bears their name, including the Harvey & Phyllis Sandler Pavilion, our state-of-the-art cancer center at Baptist Health Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital as well as the Phyllis Sandler School of Social Work at FAU.
May her memory be for a blessing always.
