Phyllis Stein Gabovitch

Phyllis Stein Gabovitch, a woman of intellect, strength, beauty, and kindness, died in Indianapolis on March 3, 2025. Phyllis was born February 25, 1934, to Anne Dauber and Max Stein in Cincinnati, Ohio. She attended Walnut Hills High School and Indiana University and graduated from the University of Cincinnati. She married Dr. Edward Gabovitch in 1955. Phyllis and Ed were married for almost 70 years, a marriage that served as a wonderful model of love, respect, and admiration for their entire family. Phyllis taught elementary school at Indianapolis Public Schools, retiring early to raise five children with Ed. Her greatest joy was her large family to which she devoted incredible time and energy. She planned many family trips, hosted innumerable family gatherings, and wrote a poem for every special occasion. She also had a great passion for the City of Indianapolis, welcoming guests in her role as information coordinator for many years at the City Center for the Indiana Convention and Visitors Association. Phyllis was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash for her civic contributions. She also volunteered for many other organizations, including the Parent-Teacher Organizations of Delaware Trail, Grandview, Westlane, and North Central Schools, the Jewish Community Center Board, Dialogue Today, Brandeis Book Sale, the Indiana State Museum, Jewish Family and Children’s Services, and as a tutor at Indianapolis Public School 2. She is survived by Ed and their children, Ellen Gabovitch (Les Morris), David Vonnegut-Gabovitch (Nonie), Michael Gabovitch (Jenny), Bill Gabovitch (Lauren), and Jane Morrison (Howard). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Zach (Phoebe), Matt (Kristin), Sarah (Avihay), Rebecca (David), Levi, Jacob (Riane), Max, Naomi, Eli, Ezra, Ellie (Ethan), Sam, Rachel, Annie, and step-grandchildren Jacob (Mina), Kendall, and Zachary. She had four great-grandchildren: Noa, Sadie, Benjamin, and Tal. Phyllis was predeceased by her parents and sister Judy Elkus (Fred). Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 6, at Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary, 11411 N. Michigan Road, and burial will follow.  Friends may join the family from 5 pm - 8:00 pm on Thursday, March 6, at the Morrison residence as they observe the Shiva period.  A minyon, a short memorial service, will be held at 6:30 pm.

 The family would like to thank the staff of Hooverwood Living for their loving care. Memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Beth-El Zedeck and the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana.