Beatrice K. Messinger of Southport, CT, wife of Henry J. Messinger, MD, passed away on September 1, 2011. Native of Nyack, N.Y., with brothers David, founder of Koblins Pharmacy, and Larry, a World War II veteran. Beatrice attended Nyack High School where she played varsity basketball, attended Syracuse University, which at 5 ft 2 inches quickly ended her basketball career. Bea attended graduate school at Columbia University Teachers College then taught English, French, directed Drama Club, coached basketball and drove the Nyack ambulance during World War II. Beatrice met beloved husband Henry during World War II, married in 1945, and moved to Fairfield.  Beatrice worked alongside “Hank” in his medical practice, raised two children Maris and Barry with much appreciated help from valued friends Mattie Lockett and Julia Hart.  A founding and lifetime member of Temple Beth El in Fairfield, she leaves behind loving friends and family. She will be missed by daughter Maris Messinger, son Barry Messinger and family, nieces and nephews: Jerry, Petrina, Melissa Koblin, Susan and David Scher, Clifford and Allison Koblin, Warren Crane, Saundra and Brent King, Randall and Kimberly Crane and all their loving children, and her sister-in-law Claire Messinger, and the Tabatznik family.  Bea was fortunate to be able to remain in her home thanks to the love and devotion of her best friend-daughter Maris. Her health was also enhanced by good friend Rochelle Jackson, Dr. Steven Kunkes, Dr. Arthur Turetsky, caring colleagues and staff.  Services were held on Sunday Sept. 4, 2011 from the Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home, with interment at Temple Israel Cemetery in Blauvelt, N.Y.  Donations in Bea’s name may be made to Congregation Beth-El,1200 Fairfield Woods Rd, Fairfield, CT 06825, Americares of Stamford, CT, or Operation Hope of Fairfield, CT.