It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara VanPatten, who peacefully passed away at her cherished home on September 26, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of the life she built.

Barbara was born on January 25, 1961, in Crisfield, Maryland, to the late Grady D. Sutton and Joyce Kay Sutton. At just two years old, Barbara moved to Florida, where she would spend the rest of her life building the life she loved.

Barbara was preceded in death by her brothers, Tommy Lee Sutton and Jack Sutton, and her father-in-law, Gerald Van Patten.

In 1977, Barbara met the love of her life and soulmate, Mark Van Patten. They married on February 24, 1980, in Fort Pierce, Florida, beginning a lifelong journey together filled with love, laughter, family, and countless memories.

Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was incredibly proud of the family she and Mark built together. She leaves behind her daughters, Desiree VanPatten and Jennifer Mayberry (Keith), who were two of the greatest joys of her life.

Her greatest title, however, was Grammie. Barbara adored her six grandchildren: Hunter Shepherd, Harper Shepherd, Alejandro Fellipone, Hayden Shepherd, Abigail Fellipone, and Clayton Mayberry. She treasured every moment she spent with them and loved watching them grow. The memories they created together will be cherished forever.

Barbara’s family also includes her beloved mother in love, Margaretta Van Patten; her sister, Paula Hall (Robin) and sister in law Cindy Klahne; her brother, William Steve Sutton; her brother in laws Scott VanPatten, and Mike VanPatten (Debbie); as well as her eight nieces and nephews and ten great-nieces and nephews.

Barbara was a one-of-a-kind woman who was never afraid to speak her mind. She was known for her quick wit, straightforward personality, and ability to make a conversation memorable. She was a loyal friend who loved deeply and fiercely. If you were lucky enough to be part of Barbara’s life, you knew she would always stand beside you, support you, and protect you.

She had a special love for the University of Florida, especially Gators softball and football. She enjoyed spending time on the boat with family and friends, soaking up the sunshine, sharing laughs, and making memories. But above all, Barbara cherished time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Those moments were some of the greatest joys of her life.

Barbara leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, laughter, love, and a family who will carry her memory in their hearts forever. Though her absence leaves an unimaginable emptiness, her love will continue to live on through her daughters, grandchildren, family, friends, and everyone whose life she touched.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on November 8, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 4:00 PM at The Coburns 1404 Hartman Road, Fort Pierce, Florida 34947. Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Barbara, share stories, laugh, cry, and remember the remarkable woman she was. This will be a come-and-go celebration, and everyone is welcome to stop by during the afternoon.

Barbara’s life was a gift to those who knew and loved her. Her greatest legacy is the family she loved so fiercely and the memories she leaves behind. She may no longer be with us in person, but she will forever be present in the stories we tell, the laughter we share, the traditions we continue, and the love she gave so freely.

Rest peacefully, Barbara. You were deeply loved, you will be greatly missed, and you will never be forgotten