Obituary of Barbara J Kerr

Barbara (Rebecca) J. Friedman-Kerr, PHD, age 79, a 25 year resident of Las Vegas, Nevada passed away at home on Sunday, May 12, 2013. Barbara (B.J.") was born July 1,1933 in Brooklyn, N.Y. to the late Samuel and Nancy(Morgenstern) Friedman. Orphaned as a little girl by the age of 8, raised by distant relatives in P .A., she strove against the odds to attain a PHD, teach as a college professor at KSU, Broward and other major schools, raise three children (all veterans) and retire in Las Vegas, NV as spouse to (the late) Thomas M. Kerr. An inspiring teacher, mentor and light to all souls who knew her here and far; Barbara was the hand of charity, love and kindness to her many friends as well as the lonely and down trodden. She always managed to use her charming warmth, wit, and cheerful laugh to touch the heart to comfort, heal, and give hope to so many for so long. Barbara was a woman of love. She lived her life guided by a philosophy of love for our fellow mankind and touching respect for all God's creatures, and wonderment of all God's creation. A most gentle, thoughtful soul, Barbara will be missed and loved forever. She is survived by her loving son Ken (Chaim) Friedman of Las Vegas, NV, granddaughter Lila (Dylan) Waier of Santa Cruz, CA, grandson Simon (Nora) Ward of Salinas, CA., and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends across the country. Barbara is also survived by a son Michael of N.Y., and daughter Janice of CA. Funeral Services was held in Las Vegas, NV. .