Celebrating the Life of
Nancy Barbuto
December 23, 1960 — April 8, 2023
Obituary
Nancy Barbuto was lost in a tragic car incident on Saturday, April 8th, 2023 at the age of 62. Nancy was truly a remarkable and special woman, not only was she a wonderful mother, partner, daughter, grandmother, etc., but she was a true friend, a confidante, an advocate, a thought leader, a warrior, and a dancer.
In true Nancy fashion, she had something to say about her obituary. So, she actually wrote it herself in October of 2020 as part of a daily email correspondence we had with her through which we discussed all matters of life, including our faith, our love, and our forgiveness and found new depth in our relationship with her. We will be sharing that obituary at our Celebrations of Life next week (more details below), and we will update it here after those events.
Clarifying note - both Services are Celebrations of Life - the website doesn't have that as a Service Type currently, but please don't hesitate to come to either event. Also PLEASE WEAR VIBRANT ATTIRE to the Celebrations :). Mom wanted us to celebrate and not wear somber clothes...she LOVED cowboy boots, hats, belts, be you and feel good in what you wear since that was how she lived.
We will first have the Florida Celebration of Life on Wednesday, April 19th at 11 am at Edna’s on the Green in Wildwood, FL (The Villages, FL). We will have the New Jersey Celebration of Life on Sunday, April 23rd from 12 pm – 6 pm at my home in Randolph, New Jersey. The latter celebration will be an open house format, so please come and go at any time throughout that window to share in the memories and love we have for our mom. Feel free to reach out with any questions and please update family members and friends that are not on Facebook with these details.
Below are my mom's words that she once again expressed to us a few years ago:
"In lieu of flowers, please be kind to someone. Call a friend or relative you haven't reached out to. Visit a shut in. Forgive someone. All acts of kindness are greatly appreciated. Contributions and donations can be made to the Hoffman Toxicant Induced Loss of Tolerance Program." https://makelivesbetter.uthscsa.edu/tilt
Mom – you were very special to all of us and touched so many lives with your incredible presence. Thank you for being you…you will be forever missed.
Services
Reception
Wednesday, April 19, 2023, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Eastern Time
Ednas' on the Green - 5227 Marsh Bend Trl, Wildwood, FL 34785
Memorial Service (In-Person)
Sunday, April 23, 2023, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm Eastern Time
Danna Jacobs' House - Randolph, NJ
Contact me for the address - [email protected]
Memories and Condolences
Please share a photo or video, or post a heartfelt condolence to the family.
I met Nancy on July 3rd, 2020. She organized a get together in The Villages and she became one of my dearest friends. She worked so hard to grow our group and to plan amazing events where so many friendships were formed. She taught us all about inclusiveness and modeled kindness. She left her mark on hundreds if not thousands here in The Villages. We’re all a little better for having known her.
Nancy asked me to do this photo session as a sort of celebration of her return to much better health. Beautiful inside and out. 💝
Searching out fun places to host parties!
One of the Many parties Nancy hosted in The Villages for SITV.
Participating in the Christmas golf cart parade in The Villages.
Nancy and I cohosted 2 celebration lunches on Veterans Day for the 2 years I knew her. We wanted to thank our Veterans for their service. She always wanted to give back and was always there to help and show her kindness to all.
Nancy our leader and Jeff our founder of SITV at a night out listening and dancing at an Alan Darcy show who also entertained us at Nancy’s Celebration of Life.
Aunt Nancy & baby Ben
Aunt Nancy & Alex
Nancy dancing at my birthday driveway party last year. Her beauty, smile,compassion, and friendship will remain in my heart forever. I see you every time I look up at the sky. Miss your earthly presence but know you are happy in heaven. I am blessed to have had you for a friend.
This picture was taken back in 2013 at St Joseph's Church in Babylon, NY. Vincent had just received his 1st Holy communion.
This picture is just one of many good times out on the boat in Jersey City. Justin (Nancy's son in law), Danna (Nancy's Daughter) and Beautiful Nancy. All big smiles from everyone.
This picture was taken a-few years back with Nancy's 1st grandchild Ryder who was about 2 year's old at that time. Nancy adored her grandkids so much, and also all her nieces and nephews. She spoiled them all and every gift she gave, there was always a-lot of thought put into it, and personalized in some way with their name on it.
Here's a beautiful Family picture that was taken at Rob & Nicole's dinner rehearsal before their big Wedding Day.
Dancing and laughing at Lake Sumter Landing.
So many memories. I am glad we had the chance to grow up together and share some incredible times….pool parties, vacations, sleepovers ,dancing school, holidays…I only hope you knew what an impact you had in my life…. You will be so missed…love you
An event @ Edna’s . I have so many amazing memories for the short time I new Nancy. Conversations, messages with ❤️ 💕🤗😘. I learnt so much from this beautiful woman. I’ll continue to be the best I can be ! Pay it forward & make a difference. Amen🥰
August 2021 toga party
The SITV Cover Girl
Christmas Eve in The Town Square Nancy will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know her. Her smile lite up the world. The kindness that she showed to everyone was monumental. Nancy could always make the world a happier place. Her dance moves were classic. Gone way too soon. She will be greatly missed. Nancy is now a shining star in Heaven.
https://youtu.be/hTdwFYxv_ro
Nancy Barbuto Nancy with the Laughing Face… This was one of her favorite songs as a child- one her dad would sing to her and make her smile. She shared one day how this song would also make her cry- And when you listen to the words , you will easily hear why. We all were surely blessed to have some time in her short life, on this earth- And there is certainly no doubt , she was an Angel from Heaven, at the time of her birth. She loved every person she met and cared with all her heart- For each year she lived , loved, and shared right from the start. Blessing to Jeff for starting SITV, that place we all met and that place we wanted to be- With that gift from God, the fellowship would prosper and grow, as lead by our Angel, Nancy.. And now as that Angel from above , she will be at that picnic table over at Edna’s on the green- Where she first would greet new members at that picnic table , with balloons that could be seen! That is where I first met her, and she introduced me around- Picnic table to picnic table , one by one, wherever a new friend could be found. She made me feel special , and that is what she did, not just for me, she did it for to us all- Whenever anyone for the first years had a question or complaint, Nancy would get the call! She became the face of the group, the shining light that would glow- Her beauty, heart, and soul , dressed for the red carpet , she had love to show! She was lovely on the outside as we all could see, yet equally as loving deep inside- In that (soul) a place ignited by God , in a spirit that would never try to hide. Nancy would be the first to say ,there were times in her life that were tough- times when none of us would ever wish to see – So, God created in her , a gift , unique only to Nancy, to endure, and keep Faith, for this is who she would be! We witnessed the love of her family, to whom her blessings will ALWAYS flow- A blessing that will be in the form of a spirit , nourishing them from inside and making them glow. They will walk proud and feel very strong from within, as they move on in each day- The love that Nancy gave them is etched in their hearts and can never be taken away. She loved the Movie -Wizard of Oz, who resided at the end of that yellow brick road- Yet she chose to live and love here, finding great peace in her heart, residing where it was not cold- Wow, did she love to dance , she moved on the floor with so much grace – Of course, that was , our SITV Angel, that was Nancy, with the Laughing Face…
Redesigning Women
Scottsdale, Arizona visiting Lynn! Another great girls’ getaway! We laughed until we cried! Oh how we will miss these times when we were altogether! We love you, Nancy, beyond words! Fly high sweet friend….until we all meet again!!!!😘❤️
In this photo left to right…Lynn, Regina, Mirtha, Robin (myself), and Nancy visiting Market Square, Pittsburgh, Pa. The girls took a trip to visit me in September 2013. We always had the best time when we were all together! The “ Fab Five” will never be the same without our NANCY!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🥲
Aunt Nancy was a wonderful aunt to me. My best memories of her was when she use to make me her penne vodka recipe. I was never a breakfast lover, but when I stayed at her house, she would make me the pasta for breakfast and of course, I ate every bit of it. I’m saddened to hear about her passing. However, she raised a wonderful daughter and son who now have family’s of their own. I think that if she were to look down, she would be filled with pride knowing that her family are left in a good place and that she raised them with great values. Even though she can’t be here physically, she’s in a better place where she can watch her grandchildren grow and flourish. I’m happy I was able to run into her in town when she was at her best. I feel like it was destined to happen. I will miss you and god bless. Love your nephew, Matthew
Nancy and Doris - we had a wonderful reunion in New Jersey
Nancy, you are the true and ultimate Overcomer. The Warrior Princes. You fought hard to get yourself well, body, mind, and spirit and you did it! I am so grateful to be a part of that journey with you, and will never forget all we shared . I called you "Spicy", your nickname that fit you well. Until we meet again my sweet friend, like you always signed your messages with me, Hugs , AnnMarie
We took this photo on Friday, March 31st of 2023 when we all visited Hollywood Studios together the week before she passed away. We had a great day and saw lots of awesome shows and enjoyed some rides together. Harper was yelling "Donald Duck where are you?" all day, even during the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Show! A great memory...
A photo a dear friend (Barb) took of her in The Villages in August 2020.
We went kayaking at Silver Springs near Orlando in April 2022, it was absolutely beautiful, however I did most of the paddling. Mom did paddle hard as we were returning the kayak though, she didn't want the onlookers to think she was slacking :)
During one of our annual Mont Tremblant ski trips. We went most years during New Year's and really enjoyed fun meals, many card games, and lots of laughs together. This tradition started during our high school years and continued until we were in our early 20's with Justin (my now husband) and Nicole (Rob's now wife) in tow, and a tradition that we hope to recreate with our own children someday...
I met Nancy @ my 1st event, just 6 months ago. We shared our stories & immediately bonded. It was like we were 1 soul. Nancy’s my angel, floating around everywhere. When I’m home I can feel her presence. She’s my angel! I love you with all my heart. You’ll never be forgotten! You’ve touched the lives of so many with your beautiful heart! ❤️😇
Nancy, a great friend, she believed in kindness, friendship and never left anybody out. Yes, Nancy will be Miss and never forgotten!
Nancy’s hard work and dedication to kindness and friendship were instrumental in changing so many lives, including mine, for the better! I will be forever grateful to her! We all loved your mom and are so heartbroken that she’s gone. God Bless you at this sad time.
Nancy…a candle in the dark, the warmth of an open fire, chicken soup for the soul, and the most beautiful smile to welcome and embrace you. You were always willing to put aside your troubles to listen and help others. When you loved, you loved deeply. When you hurt, you hurt deeply. You strove for perfection in everything you did. You were a woman that many women aspired to be. I cherish the hours we shared together praying, talking, laughing, eating and crying. I am deeply saddened because I lost you; but I give thanks and smile because I knew and loved you. Until our souls meet again, my Angel.
I met Nancy in the early days of Singles in The Villages. She always wanted to exemplify kindness and inclusion. She will surely be missed.
A forever hard working volunteer administrator for singles, jazz and getting healthy groups. A woman of courage, kindness and empathy who lived everyday to the fullest. I was pleased and proud to call her my friend. Forever she will be in my head and heart.
Nancy was one of the first person’s I met here in The Villages and I immediately was blessed to know her. I didn’t get to spend the time with that I was hoping for and talk about all things we had in common. But I will never forget our last talk where she just made me feel better about life. My prayers for you her family and friends as you navigate this tremendous loss of Nancy who lives on forever in your mind, memories and hearts. 💔
Our dear friend is in a better place now . She loved The Lord Jesus and did her best here loving people and bringing His light to her community! May God comfort all of us , specially her grandkids !
Thank you for embracing my singleness
I met Nancy in the early formation of the “SITV” Group. She was an amazing inspiration to so many! Her beautiful smile & kind gentle heart was a welcome to all. She always took time to reach out & say hello in her genuine manner. Nancy, May you rest in peace my friend, and know that you are truly loved & missed. 💜🦋🙏
My heart broke when I learned the news of Nancy’s untimely passing. The world needed more time with Nancy, and she more time in her world. I first met Nancy when we moved to the Stone Edge neighborhood. My daughter was 2-1/2 at the time. We had the most wonderful community for many years, especially for the mothers and our young children. It was then I took notice of Nancy’s concerted effort to ensure neighbors were happy and not in need. That everyone was having ‘fun’ whenever possible. Always there to lend a hand or to listen. When Nancy ran for President of the Bedminster School PTO she took on great responsibility to the township families. Under her direction, the school playground project was completed. This was a huge volunteer effort for families and Nancy managed this with great confidence. I do not believe Nancy even realized what an accomplished Project Manager she had become. And a creative, spontaneous Event Planner. Nancy always performed these tasks from a position of kindness, never looking for accolades. I can look back over the years and clearly remember the times Nancy was there for me, to help me through difficult times, to be a shoulder on which to cry. I will be eternally grateful for her generous soul and the strength she demonstrated in her own battle in recent years. Nancy was an angel on this earth and anyone who knew her, was blessed. I was blessed to call Nancy my friend.
Nancy, I will always remember you as someone who lit up every room with her smile and presence. I noticed that even as a child when we all lived in Stone Edge. You were a wonderful, kind person who meant so much to so many. I will always cherish the sweet gifts you sent to my daughters. Danna and Rob, I’m sending you both so much love. You are both in my thoughts and prayers ❤️
Nancy was truly one of the most loving, caring, thoughtful, kind-hearted, and selfless women I have ever known. When you think of quantity over quality of friends Nancy was the definition of an amazing quality friend. She was one of the true gems in my life. Nancy never had a bad word to say about anyone. When she spoke, you always listened because she had so much wisdom. When she entered a room, it was with such grace. I always looked up to Nancy as if what she said was always correct. Her advice was always calming and sincere. She really listened when you talked to her. She took on your problems as if they were her own. Whether it was decorating advice, cooking, relationship, parenting, etc. Nancy was always there to help and always put others first. Being with Nancy made me strive to be a better person- be more like her. She was a role model. She makes me want to be a kinder person. A more loving person. A leader. Nancy, you will be missed by so many. Until I see you again..fly with the angels. I know you will be one of the leaders in Heaven the way you were here on Earth. Rest in Peace, my gorgeous friend
Nancy, I’m so blessed to have had you as my dear friend. I will miss your 7 a.m. daily inspirational pinging on my phone, our texts throughout the day and our many personal conversations that meant so much to me. We helped and supported each other through immensely challenging times, and we shared in, and laughed through, so many happy memories together. We really knew and understood each other’s hearts. You will forever be a part of how I view and experience this life and the next. I hope to carry a little piece of you, your goodness, your positivity, and your faith moving forward, knowing with all my heart that you would want it that way. You persevered through so much and still kept your radiant smile and compassionate heart available to so many. You were a true follower of Christ who you loved and trusted with all your heart. I know he took your hand quickly and led you to his Kingdom. I will miss you every single day, Nancy - till we meet again.
For most of my youth, Nancy was my neighbor across the street, my ride to school, and basically 2nd mom. I pretty much saw her, Danna, Robert every single day. I helped Nancy with the kids routines each morning, had dinners with them during the week, went to dance practice and recitals, fireworks shows, karate practice in the kitchen, and so many other things…and one thing that never changed was how she always treated me as one of her own. I was an extension of the Colon family for years and years!! As time went on, and our lives took us in different directions, any time we saw each other, it was as if no time had ever passed! She was the brightest light in any room she was in. Albeit from afar, I hated learning of her health struggle, but was also so happy she was able to reclaim her health recently. The love she had for her family was immeasurable and will never end. I will be forever grateful for the love and support you provided me and always welcoming me with open arms. You were 1 in a billion Nancy and I will NEVER forget you! Rest easy and know I will always be there for your family no matter what! I love you Nancy and will forever miss you!
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