Hope Calman Leyton
May 23, 2021

HOPE CALMAN LEYTON: Age 95, on Sunday, May 23, 2021. Preceded in death by her parents Bess and Allan Calman, and her sister Marjorie Calman. She is survived by her three children, Miriam Leyton of Pittsburgh, Steven Leyton (Terri) of Clayton, MO and Robert Leyton of Pittsburgh; four grandchildren, Andrew Smith (Allison) Mollie Glazer (Jason), Elizabeth Samson (Benjamin) and Emma Lehman (Travis) and five great-grandchildren. 

A lifelong resident of Pittsburgh, Hope was a beloved mother and grandmother whose life was marked by compassion, integrity, and a strong curiosity about the people and the world around her. She attended Taylor Allderdice High School and the University of Pittsburgh, graduating from college in 1946 before it was common for women to earn post-secondary degrees. After raising her family, Hope returned to the University of Pittsburgh, earning a Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling in 1970, and worked as a counselor in the Pittsburgh Public Schools before retiring in 1990. 

Retirement gave Hope the opportunity to pursue her many passions. She traveled the world, often to exotic locations and regularly attended concerts, plays and lectures. Hope maintained countless lifelong friendships and made volunteering a priority. She worked in the archives at Rodef Shalom Congregation-where she was a lifelong member-and on many progressive political campaigns. 

Above all, Hope was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother (or "Nannie", as she was known). She was her happiest when surrounded by family. Her apartment in Oakland was the heart of the family, where she hosted everything from large holiday meals to grandchildren who were home from school. She will be missed by all. 

Private Graveside Service and Interment at West View Cemetery of Rodef Shalom Congregation. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Rodef Shalom Family Center, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 or a charity of the donor's choice. 

Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., family owned and operated. www.schugar.com

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Heartfelt feelings and condolences to you...Hope was such a treasure for all of us.

By Phyllis Davis and Steven Davis (Greensburg) - May 26, 2021

Thank you for allowing us the honor of caring for Hope. The loss of a loved one is never easy, but know our care remains here for you and your family through your grief. We hope we can offer comfort and strength during this difficult time of loss. With heartfelt sympathy, Your Heartland Hospice Team.

By Your Heartland Hospice Team - May 25, 2021

Mimsie, Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May your mother's memory be a blessing.

By Deb Polk & Val Monaco - May 25, 2021

Dear Mimsie-- It was such a *blessing* to know your mother... I'll always treasure the memories of the very sweet times we had together on Shabbat afternoons at her apartment when I helped her learn a bit of Hebrew... and she'd always cook a *fabulous* lunch for us to share, too! AND then we'd just *talk* and enjoy each other's company ... she was a compassionate and loving person, and I feel blessed to have had those special times with her. Thinking of you at this time of loss. Much love, Susan

By Susan P. Richman - May 25, 2021

Mimsie your mother was so devoted to the Women of Rodef Shalom and the Temple. She held so many positions over the years. I remember observing her devotion for years as the WRS fabulous Corresponding Secretary. I think she was also instrumental in starting the WRS wonderful Bridge Group which still continues and held many other positions. She was a major force at Temple and such a sweet, wonderful, and kind person. We will miss her. Bart and I want to send our Condolences.

By Teri Cowan - May 25, 2021

Dearest Mimsie, As you know, I love Hope and adored her for all the years, I knew her. She was a dear friend and always curious. I am so sorry, I am not in Pittsburgh to come for her Shiva. Please know that I am thinking of you and sending you healing thoughts. Much love and condolences to you and the rest of the family. Mahnaz

By Mahnaz Harrison - May 25, 2021

Mimsie, we are so sad to hear about loss of your Mother. May her memory be for a blessing. She will live on in you all and the good things you do.

By Susanne Gollin & Lazar Palnick - May 25, 2021

My deepest sympathy to the family during this really sad and difficult time. Mothers are special and I know that this mother was exceptionally special. She was so thoughtful, caring and compassionate, but strong and brave. I feel fortunate to have known her, even if just a little. I know she will be missed, but may the sweet memories keep her forever by your side.

By Karen Kokesh - May 25, 2021

Dear Miriam, I want to express my sympathy on the loss of your beloved Mother, Hope.I am looking forward to see you soon when the Rodef Shalom re-opens.

By Richard M. Gordon - May 25, 2021

Dear Mimsie, So sad to hear this news. Our families have been connected since we were little kids. Maureen joins me in sending our love & sincerest condolences. Harold Marcus

By Harold Marcus - May 24, 2021

Mimsie, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear mother. May all your cherished memories help you to get though this very difficult time. Our sincere sympathy to you and your family. Love, Fran

By Fran Weiss - May 24, 2021

To Mimsie and the other family members, I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Hope Leyton. I did know her and she was a lovely person. She will be missied. Marilyn

By Marilyn Albert - May 24, 2021