Phyllis Lazear

Phyllis Clayman Lazear passed away peacefully on September 24th in Naples, Florida at age 97.

Phyllis was born and raised in Niles, Ohio and attended Ohio State University, where she met her husband, and the love of her life, Kalmon Paul Lazear. Their first date was at a Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity dance, and they never looked back.

Phyllis and Kal were married for 59 years prior to Kal's passing and they were an extraordinary couple who were truly meant for each other. They shared a long and loving life together as a team, raising three children, their oldest Janice Lazear, then Robert Lazear and finally Bruce Lazear.

She is survived by her children, Janice, Robert and Bruce, her daughters-in-law, Wendy Lazear and Sherri Lazear, and her six beloved grandchildren, Scott Tuchman (Amy), Rachel Tuchman, Sam Lazear, Emily Lazear (Cole), Jennifer Lazear and Michelle Lazear (Nick), as well as her nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was predeceased by her husband Kal Lazear, mother Pearl Clayman , father Morris Clayman and brother William Clayman.

Phyllis and Kal loved the outdoors and camping, often driving a Winnebago with their motor boat behind it, around the country.

Phyllis was a proud educator and taught elementary school for almost 30 years. She was deeply invested in helping the children in her classes. She was also a teacher and principal at Temple Israel's religious school.

After their retirement, Phyllis and Kal moved to Naples, Florida where they built many friendships and were active in their temple. In her late 1970's, Phyllis started a care-givers group at her temple to assist members, like herself, who were taking care of a loved one and needed to share their experiences and provide support for one another.

The focus of her life was first and foremost her children and grandchildren. Every conversation with Phyllis started with, "so, what's going on with you and the kids."

She was kind, loving and throughout her life put the needs and happiness of her family first. She will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know her.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Sunday, Septemeber 28, 2025 at Epstein Memorial Chapel, 3232 E. Main St. Interment will follow at New Tifereth Israel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Phyllis's memory may be made to Jewish Columbus, Jewish Family Services of Columbus or the charity of your choice.