Helen R. Barr
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Helen R. Barr of East Longmeadow, MA passed away at age 98 on Thursday, June 2, at her home in Bluebird Estates. Born on April 7, 1924, she grew up in Springfield, one of thirteen children of Joseph and Dora (Rosnick) Barr. After graduating from Classical High School and before continuing her studies, she worked at Brandeis University and the Children's Cancer Research Foundation in Boston. She studied music at the Boston Conservatory and was a member of the M.I.T. Choral Group. Thereafter, she moved to New York City, her home for many decades. Helen received her B.A. in English from Hunter College. She supported herself through years of graduate school, working as an Administrative Asst. in the General Physics Dept. at N.Y.U., while studying at City College. Helen worked as a high school English teacher in N.Y.C. for her entire career, often helping students who spoke limited English and maintaining relationships with students long after their graduation. She was a voracious reader and maintained a keen interest in news events of the day. Helen enjoyed many cultural activities including visiting museums, attending performances of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, and traveling internationally, often with teachers' groups. In 2012, Helen returned to the Springfield area to be closer to family. Helen deeply cherished her large family. She is survived by her brother, Arnold (Rita) Barr of Enfield, CT and Florida and her sister, Naomi Knight, of Oregon and by numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by siblings Ida (Louis) Black, Francis (Jasper) Danziger-Kahn, Harry (Ann) Barr, Lefty (Mary) Barr, Minette (Jack) Minkin, Thelma (David) Goldberg, Phyllis (Arthur) Lutz and Pat (Sylvia) Barr. A funeral was held on June 3 at Beth Israel Cemetery, West Springfield. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Helen's caregivers from Perpetual Care, Inc.- Lana, Marina, Lola and Olga- and Spectrum Hospice -Alena and Stella- and others who treated Helen with great kindness and compassion. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. The Ascher-Zimmerman Funeral Home is assisting the family.