Barbara Ann Brophy

Barbara Ann Brophy, 76, of Stonecroft Village, Womelsdorf, was called by the Lord to her eternal home on Thursday evening, September 26, 2024 at Penn State Health-St. Joseph Medical Center. Born in West Reading, Barbara was the daughter of the late George B. and Mary (Folga) Ruth. She was the devoted wife of the Reverend Mark E. Brophy and was his best friend, soul mate, and wonderful partner throughout their 50 plus years of a God guided, Christ centered, Spirit sustained marriage. After graduation from Wyomissing High School in 1966, Barbara furthered her educational pursuits at Millersville University by obtaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education followed by earning a Master of Education Degree at Kutztown University with a focus on Elementary Education and Library Science. She was employed as an Elementary teacher in the Antietam School District, a librarian for the Schuylkill Valley Library, and was a Director of Library and Archives at the Berks History Center, Reading. Barbara was a member of Alsace Lutheran Church, Hyde Park, where she taught Sunday school and had an active role in the Lutheran Women’s organization. She participated in numerous activities and ministries at Alsace Lutheran Church. Barbara was a loving mother for her daughter Lisa Ann, and devoted grandmother for her grandchildren, Nathaniel and Evelyn. She left her daughter and grandchildren with cherished memories. Barbara had a love for life as she was always curious and adventurous. She enjoyed traveling, exploring new places and embraced the beauty of nature through her gardening and plants. Known for her intelligence, creativity and skill, she had a talent for everything she set her mind out to do; whether it was crafting, cooking, solving puzzles or offering guidance to those around her. Her warmth, wisdom and dedication to her family will be deeply missed. Barbara and her husband were blessed in being able to travel to many destinations throughout God’s World, Europe, the Middle East, Central and South America, the Carribean, the South Pacific, Canada, and most of all of the United States. She enjoyed the enriching experiences of travel and the cultures she encountered in different countries. Barbara is survived by her brother Douglas Ruth husband of Cindy Ruth of Womelsdorf and her nephews Jason, Zachary and Chris. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Alsace Lutheran Church 2201 Kutztown Road, Reading, Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 11:00 am. A visitation period will precede the service from 9:00 am to 10:45 am. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the American Heart Association PO Box 840692, Dallas, Texas 75284-0692 or the Charity of One’s Choice in memory of Barbara Ann Brophy. Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory, 3825 Penn Ave. Sinking Spring is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com