Beatrice Julia Steinberg was born in Los Angeles just before the onset of the Great Depression, arriving four years after her beloved brother, Phillip Hillman. She was raised alongside him by their devoted mother, Sarah Hillman, a gifted concert violinist who set aside her musical career to lovingly care for her family. Bea’s early life was shaped by her mother’s strength, artistry, and strong will.

As a child, Bea formed a friendship that would last a lifetime with Jeanie Michaels. For more than 80 years, they remained inseparable, a bond rooted in deep affection and loyalty. Jeanie once gave Bea a cherished pillow that read, “When I count my blessings, I count you twice,” a sentiment that beautifully reflected their enduring friendship, and sat on her couch for many years.

Bea attended UCLA for two years in her late teens but left her studies to help support her family—a decision that reflected her strong sense of family responsibility that lasting her entire life. In 1950, she traveled to Japan with her two close friends Charlene and Ramona to work with the U.S. State Department in the effort to help rebuild the country after World War II. Japan remained one of the most meaningful chapters of her life. She treasured the people, the culture, and especially the gardens, filling her home with Japanese mementos that kept those memories close to her heart.

Upon returning to Los Angeles, Bea held a variety of interesting jobs, including work on the development of the city’s freeway system. In 1961, she married Bernie Steinberg, and together they welcomed two sons, Stuart in 1961 and Gregg in 1963. Though the marriage was brief and ended in divorce, Bea’s commitment to her children never wavered.

As a single mother, Bea displayed remarkable resilience and determination. She often worked multiple jobs to help keep their house when times were tough. However, her greatest pride and purpose was always being a loving, supportive mother. She encouraged her sons with kindness, belief, and opportunity—whether that meant tennis lessons, violin lessons, or simply her steady presence and words of encouragement. She devoted herself fully to helping them grow into good, capable adults.

After many years of dedicated work—often serving as a trusted personal assistant to company presidents—Bea retired in 1993. Retirement opened a joyful new chapter. She embraced friendships, became an avid bridge player, and found love again. At age 82, she married Ken Gross, who was 90 at the time. They affectionately called themselves “recycled teenagers.” Ken’s kindness and companionship brought Bea great happiness, and together they traveled the world, visiting France, Spain, Italy, and many other places.

Following Ken’s passing, Bea continued to find joy in bridge, family trips, and meaningful connections. Most recently, she moved to Nashville to be closer to her son, cherishing time with her family.

Bea will be remembered for her warmth, making people laugh, and generous heart. She is survived by her sons, Stuart and Gregg; her loving daughter-in-law, Tommie; and her cherished grandkids, Mattenya, Oriella, and Myles. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched with her kindness, resilience, and enduring love.

Born: October 13, 1928

Passed: January 16, 2026