Phyllis Keselman Bonin

Phyllis Keselman Bonin, born March 2, 1934, passed away on February 13, 2026. She was the beloved daughter of the late Harry and Mary Keselman, and the devoted mother of Joseph Bonin, the late Ted Bonin, and Mark Bonin.

Phyllis lived her life with independence, conviction, and quiet joy. An artist at heart, she painted for many years. She loved wandering through museums (which she also supported) and galleries—especially alongside her son Ted, whose work as a gallery owner brought her great pride. Art was not just something she admired; it was a passion.

She was a lover of nature, whether it was taking long walks, or sunning at her favorite beach, Good Harbor. She played tennis competitively until she was 80. In earlier years, she was a bowler. She delighted in mahjong games, puzzles, and the simple pleasure of staying active and engaged. A vegetarian with a playful streak, her favorite meal was onion rings and French fries.

Phyllis believed deeply in helping others. She volunteered for many years at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. She participated in AIDS Walk Boston when her son worked at the AIDS Action Committee, standing firmly in support of causes that mattered to her family and community.

She also knew how to have fun. She loved the thrill of a slot machine and enjoyed trips to the casino with her sons, brothers, and sisters-in-law.

Independent—sometimes to a fault—Phyllis instilled that same strength in her sons. She was their unwavering cheerleader, even when she didn’t fully understand the paths they chose. What never wavered was her motherly love and her pride in her boys.

Her warmth, resilience, creativity, and devotion to family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Phyllis’s funeral service will be held Monday, February 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM at Puritan-Mount Sinai Cemetery, 776 Baker Street, West Roxbury, MA 02132.