Charlotte Costa Kleis

Charlotte Costa Kleis, a distinguished professor and beloved member of the academic community, passed away on March 30, 2026, at The Hill at Whitemarsh. Born on November 4, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, she led a life marked by remarkable scholarly achievement, dedicated service, and genuine warmth toward those around her.

Charlotte's academic journey was notable and rigorous. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan in 1958, graduating Magna cum Laude and earning the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor. Her passion for Romance Languages and Literatures propelled her to attain a Master’s degree in 1959 and a Ph.D. in 1967. Complementing her formal education were enriching experiences such as attending the Middlebury College École Française d’Été in 1957, serving as a tennis counselor at École Champlain in Ferrisburg, Vermont, during the summer of 1958, and receiving a Fulbright Grant to study at La Sorbonne in Paris from 1960 to 1961. These formative years contributed significantly to the depth and breadth of her expertise.

Charlotte's professional career was centered at Temple University, where she served as a professor from 1963 until her retirement in 2008. Her commitment to education and scholarship left an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues. Beyond her academic excellence, she was deeply involved in her community. As a longtime member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, she took on leadership roles including service on the vestry and chairing the Adult Education committee. She also maintained memberships at the Philadelphia Cricket Club and Magarity Tennis Club, reflecting her affinity for community engagement and an active lifestyle.

Her personal interests included frequent visits to Europe, with a special fondness for France, as well as trips to Maine, pursuits that enriched her intellectual and personal life. Central to her joy was her family; she found her abiding delight in her son, John A. Kleis, and his family, including her granddaughters Kerryn and Brenna Kleis.

Charlotte extended her gratitude to the many former students, associates, friends, relatives, and dearly beloved special ones who enriched her life. She also expressed thanks to the community of The Hill at Whitemarsh, where she spent her final years and cherished her earthly journey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Max Anthony Costa and Marion Rushton Costa. Charlotte's legacy endures through her family, her scholarly contributions, and the vibrant communities she touched throughout her life.

A memorial service to honor Charlotte Costa Kleis will be held on April 29, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, located at 22 East Chestnut Hill Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118. Her profound contributions to academia, church, and community will be remembered with great respect and affection.