Janet Maxine (Cook) Phylis, 91, formerly of Wayland, passed away peacefully, on April 10, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born in Providence on August 16, 1934, she was the eldest child of Milton Cook and Fannie (Rodman) Cook.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, John “Jack” W. Phylis, former Wayland police chief, with whom she shared a lifelong partnership since their first date in their sophomore year at Wayland High School. Janet is survived by her son, John Phylis and his wife, Ellen McKenna; and her daughter, Deborah Kryzak. She cherished her six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her sister, Judy (Cook) MacArthur.
Janet grew up in Wayland where she spent most of her life. She graduated from Wayland High School and Burdette Business School. She lived in Nashville for a few years during the time of the Korean Conflict, while her husband was serving in the Air Force. She and Jack returned to Wayland, residing on School Street alongside other family members on what was once family farmland.
Janet worked briefly at Loker School and for many years as an administrative assistant at the Wayland Board of Health.
Many summer days were spent enjoying life and grandchildren at the cabin Jack built off-the-grid on a small lake in the woods of northern Maine. She especially enjoyed her book club, quilting, dominoes and playing bingo. Janet especially enjoyed baking.
She will be laid to rest in the Phylis family lot in Lakeview Cemetery in Wayland with private family services.
