Barbara Penland Israel, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at the home of her son and daughter-in-law. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Four Seasons Hospice Care for the care and kindness shown to Barbara during her final days.
Born in Weaverville, NC, Barbara was the daughter of the late Theodore H. Penland and Mary L. Penland. She was the devoted wife of Richard Vernon Israel Sr., with whom she shared 57 years of marriage until his passing in 2012.
Barbara worked alongside her husband during the time he owned White’s Auto Store on 7th Avenue in Hendersonville in the mid-1970s. She was a dedicated wife, mother, and “Mamaw” whose greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her face lit up with happiness and her beautiful smile each time her family visited, especially in her later years when weekly visits became treasured moments.
A member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Edneyville, NC. Barbara also gave generously of her time to her community. She was a longtime volunteer with the Republican Party of Henderson County and served on the Henderson County Board of Elections from 1991 to 2005. Her commitment to civic duty and community service was recognized when she was awarded the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine by the Governor of North Carolina. In 2008, Barbara and her husband were honored to receive the 11th Congressional District Golden Elephant Award for their contributions to public service. She also served as a board member for TREND Mental Health.
Barbara is survived by her five children: Rick Israel of Hendersonville; Mike Israel (Linda) of Seneca, SC; Janet Holm of Hendersonville; Beth Hylemon of Hendersonville; and Tim Israel (Carrie) of Hendersonville. She leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.
She is also survived by her brother, Talmadge Penland (Vera) of Hendersonville; sister-in-law Betty Stepp of Hendersonville; brother-in-law Ben Israel Jr. (Maxine) of Hendersonville; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Barbara’s daughter, Janet, whose devoted care over the last six years allowed Barbara to live her final years with love, dignity, and comfort in the home they shared.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Shepherd Memorial Park with Dr. Bryan Melton officiating. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at the home of her daughter Janet.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice Care, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or C/O Jackson Funeral Service 1101 Greenville Hwy Hendersonville, NC 28792. Please include the name of the deceased on the condolence.
The family has entrusted Jackson Funeral Service with the arrangements.