Barbara Lee Beck Israel

Barbara Lee Beck Israel, age 79 of Hampton Township, passed peacefully in the early morning of March 16, 2024.  Born July 30, 1944 in Pittsburgh, she is survived by her husband, Stephen Israel, her daughter, Tricia Israel, her son, Wescott Israel (Avyn), and her grandson, Smith Israel.  She was preceded by her loving parents Wesley L. and Dorothy (Free) Beck, and her sister, Patricia Beck.

Barbara was a lifelong resident of the North Hills and a graduate of Shaler Area School District. She attended Penn State University where she majored in Spanish Education and Business Administration. After obtaining her undergraduate degree at Penn State, she attended Ohio State University on a fellowship for dual Master’s degrees in Spanish Education and Spanish Literature.  During her studies, she attended the picturesque 17th century University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain.  She closed out her immersive educational experience by participating in an anthropology program in Mexico for the writing of her thesis.  

Married on July 21, 1973, Stephen and Barbara spent over 50 years by each other's sides. Together, they created a life full of love, adventure, and opportunity for themselves and their two children, Scott and Tricia. Their happiest of times together were spent traveling extensively, both within the states and abroad. Barbara was selfless in every sense of the word, revolving her world around those she loved most. Her furry companions throughout life were no exception, being lovingly spoiled and doted upon always. Her caring nature also extended to animals she never met through her support of local shelters.

During her remarkable 38-year tenure as a Spanish teacher at Shaler Area School District, Barbara touched the lives of countless students, instilling in them a love for language and culture that would endure beyond their academic years.  Barbara's dedication to education extended beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her involvement in the Delta Kappa Gamma teachers honorary society, where she shared her expertise and passion for teaching with fellow educators.

In her leisure time, Barbara found joy in a myriad of activities. Crafting weekends provided a creative outlet where she could explore her artistic talents and share her creations with friends and loved ones. Her exquisite floral creations, meticulously arranged with care and precision, adorned numerous events and continue to showcase her creativity in the many homes of her family and friends. However, perhaps one of Barbara's greatest creative achievements was designing the family home, built by her late father, which she further enhanced with beautiful stained glass windows that she sketched by hand.

In retirement, Barbara remained active and engaged, participating in activities such as pilates, dance, and silver sneakers classes. She found solace and joy in music, having taken piano and organ lessons, and even delved into guitar playing. She was an active member of the Glenshaw Century Club, providing service in countless fundraisers and events to benefit the community and fund scholarships for local students. Most of all, she enjoyed social time spent with family and friends, often hosting dinner parties and picnics.

Her zest for life was evident in her extensive travels, from scenic Scandinavian trips to unforgettable Mediterranean cruises. Whether exploring the cobblestone streets of European cities or marveling at the natural wonders of national parks out west, Barbara embraced each adventure with boundless enthusiasm and an infectious spirit of exploration.

Barbara's life was a tapestry woven with threads of passion, generosity, and adventure. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a lifelong commitment to learning and service that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial will be held at a future date to gather, remember, and celebrate the beautiful life of Barbara Lee Beck Israel.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an animal charity of your choice.

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