Judith Ann Bel

1948 - 2017

September 6, 1948 - January 16, 2017
She is survived by her loving husband John, her children, Elisa Fronapfel & her husband PJ of Charlotte, NC, Aimée Bel & her husband Steven Gould of Uxbridge, MA, Kate Phelan & her husband Robert of San Antonio, and Rick Kimbrough & his wife Becky of San Antonio, and her grandchildren, Payton, Noah, & Ethan Fronapfel, Sophia & Chloe Phelan, and Mary & Ricky Kimbrough.

She has many surviving cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her parents, Mary and Clyde Kimbrough, and by her siblings, Sherry Garcidiaz and Rick Kimbrough. A graduate of Whittier College, Judy earned her MA in theology at the University of the Incarnate Word. She taught English, speech, and religious education to junior high and high school students at St. Bonaventure in Huntington Beach, CA, St. Rose of Lima in Roseville, MN, and Incarnate Word High School in San Antonio. She served as Academic Dean of Incarnate Word High School.

Judy had a fierce intellect, insatiable curiosity, deep compassion, and a love of life. She also had a beautiful singing and speaking voice. She read voraciously and deeply enjoyed conversations that inspired people to think well together. Judy dedicated her life to teaching. She loved seeing the light in people's eyes. She spent her career challenging her students to think critically, write insightfully, and clarify their values. She was committed to social justice and infused her classes with content that asked students to confront prejudice, injustices, and struggles for rights. Judy held herself, her family, and her students to a rigorous standard. She brought out the best in people. She practiced immense patience and fortitude in her long struggle with illness. Throughout, she kept her sense of humor and focused on the blessings and joys of her life.

During her outstanding professional career, she was steadfast in her dedication to her family. She was the family's center of thinking, the heart of their love and the constant spirit of justice.

MEMORIAL SERVICE
SATURDAY
JANUARY 28, 2017
10:00 A.M.
THE SISTERS OF CHARITY OF THE INCARNATE WORD
MOTHERHOUSE CHAPEL

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Children's Hospital of San Antonio Foundation--Judith Bel Endowed Fund for Child Life, Arkansas Children's Hospital Foundation--Bel-Kimbrough Endowed Fund for Pediatric Orthopedics, Friends of CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Foundation--Medical Center Hospital, Incarnate Word High School Scholarship Fund, or UIW Pastoral Institute.

You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com

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