Honoring the Life and Legacy of Twyla Bartel

The Southwestern Chapter has lost one of its most enthusiastic, dedicated, and energetic leaders. Dr. Twyla Bartel passed away around noon on Monday, June 15.

Throughout her distinguished career, Twyla devoted countless hours to advancing the field of nuclear medicine through leadership, education, mentorship, and service. Her impact was felt not only within the Southwestern Chapter, but across the national nuclear medicine community.

Dr. Bartel's passion for education, commitment to professional excellence, and unwavering support of colleagues and students helped shape the future of nuclear medicine. Her leadership, friendship, and enthusiasm will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.

The Southwestern Chapter extends its heartfelt condolences to Twyla's family, friends, colleagues, and the many individuals whose lives she touched throughout her remarkable career.

Among her many volunteer roles and contributions were:

Southwestern Chapter (SWC-SNMMI)

Historian
Educational Committee Chair
President and Past President
Trustee
Speaker
Moderator

Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI)

SNMMI Board Member
Past President, Correlative Imaging Council (CIC)
Vice President, Academic Council
Board Member, PET Center of Excellence
Chair, Women in Nuclear Medicine (WINM)
SNMMI Board Liaison for WINM, CIC, and the Academic Council
Speaker
Moderator
Session Organizer

American College of Nuclear Medicine (ACNM)

Past President
Long-Term Board Member
Educational Committee Chair
Speaker
Moderator
Organizer

Reflections and Tributes

“I cannot believe you are no longer with us. The world lost an extraordinary woman today, and words cannot express how many people you touched or the tremendous impact you made during your time on this earth. I lost a dear friend, a colleague, and a woman I deeply admired. You were my partner on so many projects, sessions, activities, lectures, ceremonies, and even the simplest conversations. You never said no. You were a remarkable leader in the ACR, ABR, ABMM, ACNM, SNMMI, RSNA, R&R, and so many other organizations, all while running a successful private radiology company.

You were my superhero, and now you are no longer here.

Words cannot describe the pain so many of us are feeling today. The hole left in our hearts is greater than anyone can imagine. I miss you, my friend. We texted only three weeks ago, and I will carry your final words with me forever.

‘Your candle burned out long before your legend ever did.’ — Elton John and Bernie Taupin, Candle in the Wind (1973)

I love you, my friend. You will always be part of my heart. Watch us from heaven. I miss you.”

~ Bital Savir

“Dear, sweet Twyla Smith-Bartel,

Our profession is a little dimmer today knowing that God has called you home. You were a constant source of positivity, a champion of clinical excellence, and a dedicated mentor to so many women and young professionals throughout your career.

Your kindness, wisdom, and encouragement touched countless lives, and your legacy will continue through those you inspired.

Sitting next to you during so many SNMMI Board of Directors meetings will always be memorable. Rest now, dear friend. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.”

~ Tina Buehner

“She was such a sweet and humble person, especially considering all she did for the field. Heartbreaking.”

~ Linda Budzinski

“Twyla was the heart and soul of so many of us both personally professionally. There are no words to describe the loss we are all feeling. May she watch over us and continue to guide and mentor us.”

~ Teresa Ellmer

“O dear… I'm devastated. The world lost a beautiful and kind soul and a wonderful colleague. My deepest condolences to her family and close friends. May she rest in peace.”

~ Lisa Bodei

“My deepest condolences to her family and friends and the ABNM, ACNM and SNMMI colleagues at this difficult time. I wish all of us patience and strength in facing her loss from our lives.”

~ Nader Jadvar

“Just so sad that we will not experience your giving spirit anymore.”

~ Cathy S. Cutler

“May her memory be for a blessing. She will be missed.”

~ Helen Nadel

Share Your Memories

Dr. Bartel touched the lives of countless colleagues, friends, students, and professionals throughout her career. If you would like to share a memory, reflection, or message in her honor, we invite you to leave a comment on our Facebook post commemorating her life and legacy.

View the Facebook tribute and share your thoughts here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/swc.snmmi/
(You must be a Facebook Group Member.)