Leila S. Handelman

Leila Handelman nee Schwartz, almost 95 of Chicago, passed away on the 25th day of Adar I 5784, March 5th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Daughter of the late Annabelle nee Mendelsohn and Joseph Schwartz. Devoted wife of 66 years to the late Neil Handelman; dear mother to Sam (Janice), Bill, Sunny (Asher Hadas), Malka (Daniel Morris), and Jacob (Maxine); dedicated sister to Joann Astrahan. Adored grandmother to 19 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Leila attended Roosevelt High School and College as a drama and education major. She helped run Neil Handelman Photography and was the post-simcha face who helped thousands of families tell their stories through their albums. Leila was extremely involved in Shaare Tikvah synagogue and the Jewish community at large. She loved theater and after retirement ushered as a "Saint" for plays around the city. "Mama Leila" nourished hundreds of her children's friends with her food and cherished them with her ear. She was the most amazing listener, confidant, and storyteller who made every person she met feel valued and heard.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to charity of your choice or Chicago Mitzvah Campaign, chicagomitzvahcampaign.org.
Chapel service, Thursday 10 AM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. Interment Shalom Memorial Park. For information, including a link to view the service, shiva or to leave condolences: Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.