Barbara Joyce Hutton, woman of faith
Barbara Joyce Hutton, a beacon of love and dedication, passed away peacefully Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the serene Rehoboth Beach. She was born Oct. 15, 1935, in Washington, D.C. Barbara's journey of 88 remarkable years began as the beloved daughter of the late Maurice Joyce and Florence Seward. Her vibrant spirit and warm heart will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Barbara's early years in the nation's capital set the stage for a life of achievement and service. After graduating from Mount Holyoke College in 1957, she embarked on a career that saw her rise to become a respected senior administrator. But it was her role outside the office that truly defined her character. As a dedicated and committed sports parent, Barbara spent countless hours transporting her four children, John, Wendy, James and Elizabeth, to swim practices and meets, instilling in them the values of discipline and teamwork.
Barbara's unwavering love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Dr. John E. Hutton. She is survived by her four children, John, Wendy, James and Elizabeth, who remember her as the cornerstone of their lives. Her devotion extended to her grandchildren, for whom she lovingly sewed and knitted garments, pouring her heart into every meticulous stitch.
Her passions were diverse and deeply ingrained in the fabric of her being. A long-standing member of her local church, Barbara's faith was a source of strength and comfort, both to her and to those she supported within the congregation. Her love for cooking and baking brought joy to family gatherings, while her green thumb was certified with a master gardener certificate, a testament to her dedication to nurturing life in all its forms, from her cherished garden to her beloved fish pond.
Barbara's home was filled with the sounds of contentment, whether it was the pages of a book turning on her back porch or the laughter of her children and grandchildren. An avid reader, her favorite haunt was Browseabout Books, where she could be found exploring the shelves for her next literary adventure.
Her love for animals was profound, with her pets Gipper, Annie, Maggie, and Yoda, receiving the same generous love she gave to her family. Life's simple pleasures brought her immense joy, such as sitting on the beach with her toes in the sand or taking an occasional swim in the ocean's embrace.
Barbara’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of unwavering love, spirited dedication, and selfless generosity. As we remember her today, we celebrate her indelible mark on this world, a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us. Barbara, you will be profoundly missed, but your light will forever shine in the hearts of those you cherished.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 22, at St. Edmond Church, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
Visit Barbara’s Life memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
