Barbara D. Ingersoll, 79

November 06, 2024

Barbara D. Ingersoll, Ph. D passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Barbara Jean Sahl, daughter to Frederick H. G. Sahl and Jean Pettinger Sahl was born February 9, 1945, in NY City. Over the course of her younger years Barbara traveled throughout most of Europe and the Middle East during her father’s tour of duty in Wiesbaden, Germany. 

Barbara was an excellent student and excelled in her studies as a young girl at St. Vincent’s Academy in Shreveport and Nazareth College in Pittsford, NY.  These early studies laid a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning at The Pennsylvania State University where she obtained her PhD in clinical child psychology.

It was during this time that Barbara met and married the love of her life Thomas Ingersoll. Tom and Barbara spent 50 years together chasing their dreams and experiencing life to the fullest.  Their life was filled with love, friends, fine dining, travel, and four legged companions. Barbara and Tom were never without the company of their beloved German Shepards, cats, and an occasional Collie. Over the years Barbara was a staunch advocate for animal welfare.

Barbara spent her career building a successful private practice in Bethesda, Maryland treating children, and adults with learning, behavioral, and emotional challenges.  Barbara was a ferocious reader and loved to put pen to paper.  If you were ill or recovering, you were sure to get a personalized greeting from Barbara with a rhyme that was written just for your circumstances!  Barbara was a published author of several books in her area of expertise. She was often sought out for advice and counsel even long after retiring to her beloved Mill House in West Virginia. 

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents Frederick and Jean, and husband Thomas (September 2024). She is survived by her sister Betsy Sahl Davis of Virginia, and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.  Barbara leaves behind a legacy of treasured friendships and will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her. 

Barbara Ingersoll was lovingly cared for by Hospice of the Panhandle in West Virginia and Grane Hospice in Lancaster over the last couple of years. The family wishes to thank all the healthcare professionals involved with these organizations for the love and care given to Barbara during her final days at Legend of Lancaster. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or your local Hospice organization.

A private interment will take place at a later date.