Barbara Shapiro

Sept. 23, 1943 to June 18, 2024

Barbara was the eldest daughter of Robert Hewson and Margaret O’Connell. She was predeceased by her parents and sister Patricia O’Donnell. Raised in the Bronx, she graduated from Villa Maria Academy.

Barbara briefly attended Columbia University, graduated from Boston College and studied writing at the New School with New York Times book critic Anatole Broyard.

At the 1964-1965 World’s Fair in Queens, she worked in the General Electric exhibit demonstrating the early technologies of self-cleaning ovens and robots. Barbara was also an employee of the advertising agency Adams, Dana, Silverstein and thrived in her own casting company, Barbara Shapiro Casting, which included the casting of all of John Sayles’ films. She was later a volunteer in MOMA’s film department.

In December of 1970, she married Moses Shapiro, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Instrument Corporation. They led a glamorous life of travel, had several residences and a home in Bellport, Long Island, where family and friends were always welcome - with music of the 1930’s and ‘40s.

Her love of animals started from her earliest days and included Lucky, Schnapps, Ms., Charlie, Barney, Sammy, Dearie, Gracie and Roxie (among others!).

Barbara was an avid reader. She loved the arts and beauty and brought much beauty into the world.

As she wanted, Barbara was fortunate to be able to be cared for at home in these last few years. She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held at Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel, 1076 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10028, on Tuesday, June 25th at 11 a.m.