Phyllis Depiro D’amico Inguanez

Peter Apap Bologna writes:

Cousin Phyllis, as I always knew her, was the last of the great matriarchs of her generation. She died shortly after her 95th birthday, leaving to mourn her loss her five children, 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She died peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by those she loved, leaving a void that cannot be filled. Many tears were shed.

A wonderful mother, she ruled her family with kindness and smiles. She was gentle and never needed to shout for it was impossible not to do as she wished when she asked in her charming, soft but firm way.

She was the daughter of the famous Sur Tonin Cassar Torreggiani, who organised the Maltese banking system into the National Bank of Malta group, and his stunningly beautiful wife Maggie Calì, daughter of Giuseppe of painting fame. Maggie’s two daughters, Grace and Phyllis, were blessed with beauty in both looks and character.

Maggie died in 1923, when Phyllis was just six, and her father 38 years old. The family were fortunate in having an Aunt Giulia, Zia Ju, widowed young, who replaced her sister in so far as it was possible. She must have done a good job of it, as they adored her.

Phyllis was the youngest of the four children. Her brothers, Frank and Austin, were sent to Stonyhurst and later joined the army and served gallantly in the war.

Grace fell in love with a dashing army officer, who would become lieutenant colonel in the RMA no less, and married him.

Phyllis settled for a lance bombardier, one Jerome de Piro, who also happened to be heir to the Barony of Budach, to which he succeeded in 1942 on the death of his father Igino. At a luncheon at the Palace, Jerome, in his ‘other ranks’ uniform, found himself seated, according to protocol, above his colonel. This was not helpful on returning to barracks!

Phyllis and Jerome were married at the Carmelite church in Balluta Bay, opposite the Cassar Torreggiani summer home. Her funeral took place there. Full circle, one could say.

Jerome and Phyllis headed a dynasty that is still evolving. Their high standards and principles endure, even as the dynasty grows and spreads. I am proud to have known and loved them and will cherish their memories to my dying day.

All Malta should be proud of them for they lived exemplary lives, which are an honour to our nation.