In Loving Memory of Becca Piper

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Becca Piper, the beloved founder of The Ties Program and co-founder of The Gift of Identity Fund. Becca was not only a visionary leader but also a kind and compassionate person who left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. The Ties Program would not be what it is without Becca.

Becca Piper, 65, of Sedona, AZ, passed away on November 21, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Michael and her parents, Reg and Maydean Nash.

Becca is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 40 years, Ken Piper, her children Joe, Selena, and Larry, her cherished granddaughter Maelyn, and her siblings David and Janet. She also leaves behind extraordinary friends, extended family, and colleagues who enriched her life.

Motherhood was central to Becca’s life. She and Ken lovingly adopted all four of their children, and raising them was one of her greatest joys. Becca often reflected on her life with deep gratitude, treasuring the countless connections she made and the places she explored.

Becca on the first Ties trip to Korea in 1994

Born in Whitewater, Wisconsin, Becca graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison before founding Adoptive Family Travel Heritage Journeys by The Ties Program. For nearly 30 years, she, along with her dear friend Bea Evans and a remarkable team, guided international adoptees and their families on journeys to their birth countries. These experiences helped adoptees explore their heritage, culture, and, at times, reunite with birth families and caregivers.

Becca’s passions included travel, adventure, culture, nature, hiking, yoga, dancing, and her beloved dogs. She found immense peace and joy on the trails, immersed in the beauty of the world around her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Becca’s memory can be made to the Gift of Identity Fund at www.gift-of-identity.org, supporting international adoptees in reconnecting with their roots.

Her life was a testament to love, adventure, and the power of connection. Becca will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Becca’s work impacted thousands of people. We invite everyone who traveled with her or were impacted by her work to share their stories in the comments section.

Becca’s most recent Ties trip to Kazakhstan in 2019