Barbara Louise Houser
Barbara Louise Houser, 95 of Hopewell, passed away on Monday, December 16, 2024 in her home. She was born August 4, 1929, in Ford City, Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late Marvin and Frances Carberry. Barbara had been a registered nurse, graduating from the West Penn School of Nursing, and worked for many years at VA Hospitals in Butler and Pittsburgh, as well as with the Pennsylvania State Hospital system. Barbara’s life blossomed following her retirement; she traveled extensively, at first by herself then with her second husband, the Rev. J. Ray “Jack” Houser. Barbara and Jack cruised and traveled widely, to Norway, Greece, the middle east and destinations in Europe. A born volunteer, Barbara often delivered meals to people younger than herself in her 24 years with Meals on Wheels. Barbara was a member of Prince of Peace Anglican Church and led the Alter Guild there for many years. She was an avid reader, preferring English mysteries, and claimed to feel happiest reading two newspapers in a sitting. In reality, Barbara never ceased trying to help others or making others feel better about themselves.
In addition to her parents and the Rev, J. Ray Houser, Barbara was preceded in death by three children: an infant son, Susan Elaine Johnston, and Christopher Andrew Weis, as well as two great granddaughters: Audree Johnston and Kinlee Brinn Johnston.
Barbara is survived by two sons and daughters in law: Bruce Alan (Tsuyako Sandy Dunn) Weis and Mark Edward (Marye) Weis, three step children: Jill Houser, Patsy Houser and Martin (Susan) Houser, and 11 grandchildren: Richard Gregory, Kimberly (Kristofer) Grohl, Kristopher (Joannie) Gregory, Patrick Edenfield, Arthur (Amanda) Johnston, John (Paige) Johnston, Monica (Chance) Braud, and Edwin “Buddy” (Ashley) Covalt, Benjamin Houser, Amelia Houser and Mei Houser; 15 great-grandchildren; a sister Joan Ludwig, and a nephew Paul Goode.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January, 11, 2025 at 11:00 am in Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa. In lieu of flowers, Barbara requested that donations be made to the Hopewell Volunteer Fire Department or Prince of Peace Anglican Church.