Mrs. Barbara J. Matzner

Bobbi Matzner passed away on June 6, 2023, at age 78, surrounded by family. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, surrogate mother and amazing educator, Bobbi had a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, curiosity and exploration, but for Bobbi, her family always came first. She was a world traveler who overcame many obstacles throughout her life. She was an incredible example of strength, perseverance and fortitude. She is predeceased by her parents, Curt and Kathe Behrens.
Born in Manhattan, NY, Bobbi grew up in Germantown on the Upper West Side. She was a child prodigy who graduated from high school at 16 and attended Syracuse University and graduated from CUNY with a degree in English. Bobbi's extensive teaching career began in the Bronx, spanned decades and covered schools in Brooklyn, Queens and on Long Island. She was an English professor at Lehman College. Throughout her years she was a shining influence on her students, also serving as a surrogate parent to some. Many of those who often graced the family home on weekends and holidays.
Bobbi moved to Columbia in 2004 and took Columbia by storm. She became an integral part of the community, participating widely in many activities and volunteering for many events, such as Bubbie's brisket and harvest hope.
Bobbi will be remembered by her husband: George, children: Jennifer Abrams and Daniel Matzner, spouses: Andrew Abrams and Eveda Matzner, grandchildren: Hallie and Chloe Matzner and Giana Abrams, family and many friends she also considered family.
The graveside service for Mrs. Matzner will be held at 10 o'clock on Thursday, June 8th, at Beth Shalom Arcadia Lakes Cemetery, 208 Arcadia Lakes Drive, Columbia, SC. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bobbi's name with Harvest Hope, Sister Care, or The Columbia Jewish Federation.
A livestream of the service will be available under "Current Webcast" at ShivesFuneralHome.com.