Phyllis Mae Kleinman

April 30, 1930 ~ July 29, 2015

Phyllis Mae Kleinman was a world traveler, avid golfer, Giants fan, and sailor who loved spending time on her sailboat. Loving and dedicated mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She enjoyed her dogs, Asta and Blackie. Phyllis loved to laugh, especially at her husband’s jokes. One nephew has written, “I’ll always remember Phyllis as the most glamorous woman, she seemed like someone out of the movies, and was eternally cheerful and smiling, she filled the room with her golden glow and it’s a sadder world without her!”

Phyllis was born in San Francisco, California and grew up in the Mission District. Phyllis’ parents, Lillian and Keith Russell Jones emigrated to San Francisco from Australia in the early 1920’s. When Phyllis’ father died in 1932, Phyllis and her sisters were raised by their mother Lillian. Lillian worked in hotels as a housekeeper and at the Kaiser shipyards in Alameda during the Second World War. Phyllis attended St. Charles Primary School, Everett Junior High School and Mission High School, graduating in 1947. Phyllis married in 1947 and travelled throughout Mexico. After her first marriage ended, Phyllis went to work at the White House department store in downtown San Francisco. In an era when gloves and hats were de rigueur, Phyllis intuitively understood the elements of style and fashion. At the White House, Phyllis met Simon Kleinman, Outdoor Furniture/Toy Manager who was besotted by her. They married in 1956. From that point forward, Phyllis worked in advertising, public relations and fashion. By the mid 60’s she was devoting all of her energies to promoting her husband’s career. As his help mate, hostess, advisor and confidante, Phyllis never forgot a face or a name. She was a person who could engage with anyone and see the goodness and value in everyone. Her interest in other people was genuine. Sy relied on her greatly. Together they a built a successful life. As a dear friend has written “I recall the first time that I met her. She greeted me as if I were the Prince of Wales. I thought to myself, ‘be serious what an act, nobody is that nice’. After some observation, I realized that this was no act. Phyllis was indeed someone so very special. She really was that nice.”

Beloved wife of Simon Kleinman for 60 years. Loving mother of Laurence Hernandez (Kristi) and stepsons: Elliot Kleinman (Afi), Paul Kleinman (Debi) and daughter-in-law Joyce Kleinman.

Devoted grandmother of Leslie Hernandez Dinneen (Jon), Mark Hernandez, Jenni Kleinman Berebitsky (Jeff), Rob Kleinman (Gerri), Scot Kleinman (Elizabeth), Alex Kleinman, Asher Kleinman, Alec Kleinman, and Ari Kleinman.

Great-grandmother of Philip Berebitsky, Wyatt Kleinman, Violet Kleinman.

Also survived by her niece Linda Aymami (Gary).

Preceded in death by her sisters, Audrey and Patricia Russell Jones.

A celebration of Phyllis’ life will take place later this month.