BARBARA JEAN SHAPIRO, March 16, 2017. Passed away peacefully at the Agrace Hospice Residence in Madison, Wisc., after a valiant battle with cancer.  She is survived by her devoted husband Howard, loving son Andrew, dear brother Steven, his wife Diana, niece Nora and nephew Nick.  She was the adored daughter of the late Maurice and June Steinman and “granddaughter” of great aunts Sara and Anna and great uncles Aaron and Nathan Sobel.

Barby was born June 24, 1951 in St. Louis and lived most of her life in the city and West County.  After graduating from Ladue High School in 1969 she attended the University of Missouri in Columbia.  In 1977 Barby survived a devastating automobile accident which left her a paraplegic.  After an extended recuperation at Barnes Hospital and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago she admirably met all of her new challenges and embraced her life with dignity and strength.  Barby quickly became a passionate and outspoken advocate for people with disabilities and was a committed volunteer to such organizations as Paraquad, Easter Seals, The Boy Scouts, and Parkway Parents Advisory Council for Children with Disabilities (PPACCD).  In addition she co-founded a small children’s clothing business, Creative Couture.  Throughout her life Barby ardently supported progressive political causes, enjoyed watching classic movies and making art.  She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends as well as her loyal service dog Luke and Andy’s dog Trey.  Most of all Barby will be remembered as a loving mother and wife with an indomitable spirit.

Funeral service Wednesday, March 22, 11:00am at Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Blvd. followed by interment at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 7550 Olive Blvd.  Shiva will be observed at Meadowbrook Country Club, 200 Meadowbrook Country Club Estates Drive on Wednesday from 12:30pm to 4:30pm.  Donations in Barby’s memory may be made to Support Dogs, Inc., 10955 Linpage Place, St. Louis, MO, 63132. Rindskopf-Roth Service