Barbara Louise Houser, 95, of Hopewell, passed away on December 16th, 2024 in her home. She was born in Ford City, Pennsylvania on August 4th, 1929, a daughter of the late Marvin and Frances Carberry. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her second husband, the Rev. J. Ray Houser, three children, an infant son, Susan Elaine Johnston and Christopher Andrew Weis, as well as two great granddaughters, Audree Johnston and Kinlee Brinn Johnston. She 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 eleven 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; fifteen great-grandchildren, a sister Joan Ludwig, and a nephew Paul Goode.

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. Her 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. She 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, she never ceased trying to help others or making others feel better about themselves.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 11th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the 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.