Phyllis Gail Keller

Phyllis Gail Keller passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, days before her 102nd birthday. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on March 17, 1923. Her family and friends had been looking forward to celebrating this milestone with her.

Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Phyllis left Miami University in Ohio and enrolled in Flower Fifth Avenue Nursing School in New York City. She graduated in 1947, returned to Cleveland, and married Robert (Bob) Keller, a WWII Navy veteran. Phyllis dedicated 50 years to nursing before retiring and embarking on a second career as a Ford model. Her lovely image appeared on numerous greeting cards, brochures, and advertisements.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob; her mother, Evelyn Rudner, who emigrated to the U.S. from Russia via England, where she was born; her father, Sam Rudner, and sister, Beverly Rubin (Robert). Phyllis (“Nana Fifi”) is survived by her four children: Lee (Mamie), Susan (Bert), Scott (Priscilla), and Jon (Robin); 9 grandchildren: Jenny, Tally, Casey, Tommy, JT, Allie, Gus, Cooper, and Woody; and 9 great-grandchildren: Evie, Jack, Cooper, Chase, Ozlo, Ben, Otto, Freddy and Hazel. She will also be deeply missed by her dear friends and caregivers at Summit Corners Senior Living.

The family is planning a private celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Greater Cleveland Congregations Healthy Blocks Initiative, which strives towards helping youth embark and progress in careers in healthcare. Checks can be sent to Greater Cleveland Congregations at 3558 Lee Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44120 or electronically via its website https://greaterclevelandcongregations.org/. Please note: In memory of Phyllis Keller.  Condolences and special memories of Phyllis can be shared with her family online at www.heritagecremationsociety.com