Barbara Jean Celone
Barbara Celone, 76, of Fort Myers, Florida, peacefully entered the light on January 17, 2026, with her beloved partner of 45 years, Michele Sullivan and her loving sister, Cynthia, by her side.
Barbara was a woman of extraordinary kindness, generosity, and quiet strength. She moved through the world with a calm demeanor and a gentle presence, offering warmth and respect to everyone she met. Caring came naturally to her-it was simply who she was.
A lifelong learner, Barbara's devotion to education shaped her life and career. She was a graduate of Albertus Magnus College. She went on to earn two master's degrees-one in Latin American Studies and a second in Library Science. After beginning her career as a government documents librarian at Yale University, where she met the love of her life, Michele, she went on to a distinguished career at Stanford University. There, she ran the Cubberly Education Library and earned the honor of Professor Emeritus upon her retirement in 2006.
Barbara embraced life with curiosity and joy beyond her academic pursuits. A lover of travel, fine food and wine, she pursued formal cooking credentials and earned her sommelier designation in her retirement. One of her greatest achievements was walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain with Michele.
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Barbara was the daughter of Ralph and Louise Bombace Celone. Barbara is survived by her beloved partner, Michele Sullivan; her sister, Cynthia DeLeone; her sister, Sandra Bayer; her brother, Samuel Celone; and several cherished nephews both living and in spirit.
She is also survived by three great-nephews and a great-niece who brought her much joy.
Throughout every chapter of her life, Barbara's kindness and generosity remained her hallmark. Her steady presence, quiet grace, and compassionate heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Barbara will be remembered for her love, her gentleness, and the countless ways she made the world a better, kinder place-simply by being in it.
A memorial service will be held in New Haven, Connecticut, at a later date. In honor of Barbara's life and legacy, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The New Haven Register from Feb. 10 to Feb. 13, 2026.

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Sarah Seestone

February 10, 2026

I'm so saddened to hear about Barbara's passing. She was a wonderful mentor and friend at Stanford Libraries. Her curiosity, willingness to help, kindness to colleagues, and sharp wit stood out. She was also a dear friend outside of work, and my wife Darsi and I enjoyed many dinners at Barbara & Michele's home. She was a lovely and gracious host. Sending love and condolences to Michele and her family.

Kathy Kerns

February 10, 2026

I remember the way she and Michelle would sometimes watch my young son when I had to work Saturdays at the reference in Green Library at Stanford. As a single parent, I really appreciated their generosity.

Darsi Rueda

February 9, 2026

I have so many good memories of Barbara when we both worked at Stanford Libraries. She was a great colleague, and a wonderful friend! She and Michelle helped us pick the wine for our wedding 20 years ago; sitting in their kitchen sharing dinner and wine and laughter was so nice.

My sincerest condolences to Michelle and all of the family. May you all be at peace for the wonderful life she shared with you.

Ann Latta

February 9, 2026

Michelle, Cynthia, and all the family and friends who were loved and supported by Barbara and who loved her in return,

I was fortunate to work with Barbara and be guided by her in Cubberley Library. Her support of me personally during a difficult lawsuit and family travails made life easier and work productive. All good, Barbara.

Billie Bousman

February 9, 2026

Barbara was my supervisor for several years and she was one of the most gentlest, kindness people I know. I agree with everything that was said in her obituary. I am so sorry for your loss. Billie Bousman

kelly Roll

February 9, 2026

I am so saddened to hear about Barbara's death. She was my boss for many years at Cubberley and then continued her work in gov docs after her retirement. I always loved hearing about her travels. My condolences to the family

Sharmon Simonetti

February 9, 2026

Cindy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope your memories of Barbara will continue to keep her alive in spirit. ~ Sharmon

Helene Porto-D´Orazio

February 8, 2026

What a beautifully written tribute to a gentle soul. I recall visiting Barbara at my Alma Mater at Hofstra when she was studying for another degree.
My heart aches for all of my cousins who have passed,

Judith Sklarz

February 8, 2026

Sandy, Cindy: I am very sorry for your loss. Although I did not know Barbara, your loving words give me a sense of your love for her. May her memory be for a blessing.

Denise Santana

February 8, 2026

Oh Michelle, I´m so saddened to hear of the passing of Barbara. I spoke with Sandy awhile ago and she told me that Barbara was not doing well. We had such great times together in Florida when Jim would take us on the boat. Unfortunately Jim passed away November 26, 2024 and I miss him so much he was such a wonderful partner, as I know Barbara was to you. With a heavy heart, I pass on my condolences to you and the family. Be well my dear friend and thank you for so many great memories in Florida... Denise Santana.

Richard M Albert

February 7, 2026

Dear Sam and Family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your sister. May her memory continue to be your blessing....Rick Albert

David Langenberg

February 7, 2026

Barbara was a colleague of mine at Stanford years ago. She was an inspiration as a professional librarian. I´m sorry to hear of her passing.

Sue-Ellen Johnson

February 7, 2026

Yes Barbara was a person of quiet and extraordinary kindness. I will always remember that.

Miriam W Palm

February 7, 2026

I worked with Barbara at Stanford for many years, and we used to walk to work together. After she retired, we kept in touch, as (among other things) we share a birthdate. We also visited them in Butte, on our way to my husband's home town in Montana. When she and Michele decided to move to Florida, I bought Barbara's 2008 Jetta and am still driving it.

Barbara was a lovely and caring person, a very capable librarian, and a good friend. I shall miss her deeply, as will all of us who were fortunate enough to be her colleagues at Stanford.

With Michele and my husband in Butte, 2014.

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