Phyllis Ann Caldwell (née Ruskin), born on October 10, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, in her hometown of Chicago. Her life was marked by compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to serving others.
Phyllis was a devoted mother to Julie and Brian Caldwell and a cherished mother-in-law to Julie Lain. She found immense joy in her role as grandmother to William and Gwenyth Caldwell, whose lives she enriched with love and warmth. She is also lovingly remembered by her brother Russell Ruskin and his wife Linda, her brother-in-law James Turngren, and her nieces and nephew Jennifer, Jeffrey, and Jamie Turngren.
Throughout her life, Phyllis exemplified the spirit of service. She dedicated countless hours over many decades volunteering at local churches, offering her time and energy to support her community in meaningful ways. Her professional life reflected the same values; she retired after 17 years of committed service as Clinic Coordinator for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at The University of Chicago. Her work left a lasting impact on colleagues and patients alike.
A passionate advocate for animals—especially those with special needs—Phyllis was tireless in her advocacy and care. Her compassion extended beyond people to all living beings, reflecting a heart full of empathy and kindness.
Phyllis's legacy is one of love, generosity, and unwavering dedication. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis's memory to As Good as Gold Dog Rescue at asgoodasgold.org/giving. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.
Phyllis was a devoted mother to Julie and Brian Caldwell and a cherished mother-in-law to Julie Lain. She found immense joy in her role as grandmother to William and Gwenyth Caldwell, whose lives she enriched with love and warmth. She is also lovingly remembered by her brother Russell Ruskin and his wife Linda, her brother-in-law James Turngren, and her nieces and nephew Jennifer, Jeffrey, and Jamie Turngren.
Throughout her life, Phyllis exemplified the spirit of service. She dedicated countless hours over many decades volunteering at local churches, offering her time and energy to support her community in meaningful ways. Her professional life reflected the same values; she retired after 17 years of committed service as Clinic Coordinator for the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at The University of Chicago. Her work left a lasting impact on colleagues and patients alike.
A passionate advocate for animals—especially those with special needs—Phyllis was tireless in her advocacy and care. Her compassion extended beyond people to all living beings, reflecting a heart full of empathy and kindness.
Phyllis's legacy is one of love, generosity, and unwavering dedication. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phyllis's memory to As Good as Gold Dog Rescue at asgoodasgold.org/giving. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Phyllis Caldwell, please visit our flower store.
Phyllis Caldwell's Guestbook
Visits: 21
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors