Elizabeth “Betsy” Barr

Born on June 14, 1943, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Betsy was the daughter of the late Helen Thompson Puskar and John D. Puskar. In 1974, she made Myrtle Beach her home, beginning a lifetime of service to higher education and the surrounding community.

Betsy earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During her time at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Betsy was also an active member of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. Following her undergraduate years, she also earned both a Master’s and a Doctoral degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Her dedication to education and student success shaped a distinguished career spanning more than four decades.

She joined the faculty of Coastal Carolina University in 1974 as an Associate Professor. Throughout her tenure, she served in numerous leadership roles, including Director of Counseling Services, Assistant Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Acting Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Dean of the School of Natural and Applied Sciences. She designed and taught courses in interpersonal communications, the psychology of women, and counselor education, inspiring generations of students through her passion for learning and mentorship.

A visionary educator, Betsy led several National Science Foundation grant initiatives focused on hands-on, inquiry-based science education, teacher training, and increasing gender equity in mathematics and science for young women. Her contributions to education were recognized with the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Distinguished Alumni Award. She also was honored with the title of Professor Emeritus from Coastal Carolina University.

From 2006 to 2017, Betsy proudly served as First Lady of Glenville State College (University), supporting the institution and its students while continuing her lifelong commitment to education and community engagement.

Her commitment to serving others extended well beyond the classroom. Betsy was a devoted member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church and generously shared her time with numerous organizations, including Hidden Promise Scholars, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, the National Board for Certified Counselors, and Episcopal Women. Betsy also served as an officer of the Horry County division of Citizens Against Spousal Abuse (CASA).

On July 18, 2003, Betsy married Peter Barr. Together they shared a loving partnership built on mutual respect, support, and a commitment to education and service.

Above all, Betsy treasured her family. She is survived by her beloved husband, Dr. Peter B. Barr; her children, Carrie Barr Mott (Cameron), Jason Peter Barr (Kelly), Christine Barr Haltiwanger (James), and her later in life adopted son, Marcal Lazenby. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Olivia Mott, Jason "J.P." Barr Jr., Laura Haltiwanger, Davis Haltiwanger, and Erin Barr.

She is also survived by her brother, Paul Puskar (Jeanne); her nieces, Maryanne Hanenberg (Kyle), Elizabeth Puskar, and Annie Puskar Barnaby (Daniel); her great-niece, Madison Hanenberg; her great-nephews, Brett Hanenberg and David Barnaby; along with many extended family members, colleagues, former students, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Elaine Puskar Noster.

Betsy's legacy lives on through the countless students she mentored, the educators she inspired, the institutions she strengthened, and the family she loved so deeply. Her wisdom, leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of education will continue to influence generations to come.

A funeral service will be Saturday, September 12th at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in North Myrtle Beach, SC at 11:00 am with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Surf Golf and Beach Club. Arrangements are being handled by Lee Funeral Home. A private interment will take place at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Hidden Promise Scholars Program at Glenville State University through the Glenville State University Foundation office. Glenville State University Foundation ℅ Hidden Promise Scholars Program, 200 High Street, Glenville, WV 26351.