Carol Beth (DeKoven) Samsky

Carol Beth (DeKoven) Samsky, born in Chicago on February 14, 1947, died at her home in Asheville, N.C., on January 1, 2024, after dealing with the neurodegenerative disease ALS. She allowed the experience to serve as a pathway toward better understanding her own mortality. Throughout she was fortunate to have the love and support of her family: Jeremy Samsky, her husband of 55 years, her son Ethan, his wife Monica, and their children Isaac and Hannah, and her son Alex, his wife M.K., and their child Zeno; her brother Richard and his wife Susie, her sister Linda and her husband Michael and her brother-in-law David and his wife Lana; and so many of her nieces, nephews, and cousins. So many wonderful friends and neighbors were there for her as well, continuing to visit, even when she was unable to speak. Technology provided a way for her to be able to communicate so that she was able to maintain those vital connections. Carol received degrees from Boston University, New York University, and Loma Linda University. She was a cytotechnologist by profession. By the end of her career, she had become the supervisor of an anatomic pathology department, overseeing Cytology, Histology, and Autopsy sections, and was also teaching at Loma Linda University. When Carol and Jeremy retired, they left Riverside, California, to come to Asheville. This move brought them closer to their East Coast family and it was here that Carol pursued her love of the arts. She designed furniture that Jeremy built for their new home. She also renewed an earlier interest in ceramics, producing Judaica pieces that sold at the Congregation Beth Israel Gift Shop, as well as crafting unique, expressive pieces, like her "bird boxes." Carol was committed to the Jewish ethic Tikkun Olam ("repairing the world"). Actions in support of social justice, no matter how small, were prioritized. In addition to those mentioned above, Rabbi Levine, along with the Beth Israel Congregation provided much care and guidance. Much gratitude is also due to Hospice Care and Susan Trombley, her home care aide. The funeral service will be held at Congregation Beth Israel (CBI) 229 Murdock Ave., Asheville, 28804 on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Lou Pollock Cemetery, and concluding with a Meal of Consolation back at CBI. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the following: * The ALS Association, North Carolina Chapter (ALSNC.ORG) * Congregation Beth Israel of Asheville (Bethisraelnc.org) * American Jewish World Service (AJWS.org)

Tributes

Carol Beth (DeKoven) Samsky

February 14, 1947 - January 1, 2024