Barbara Dean Hatch Keeling

Barbara Dean Hatch Keeling, 84, loving mother, sister, aunt and great-aunt passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 23, 1941, in Oak Bluffs, Mass., Martha's Vineyard. Prior to living most recently in Abingdon, Va., she was a long-time resident of Naples and West Palm Beach, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Wade Edward Keeling; her mother and step-father, Marjorie Rabbitt Rusbosin and Captain Vincent Rusbosin, US Navy (Ret.); her father, George Edward Hatch; and her sister and brother-in-law, Joan Rusbosin Foote and Captain Herbert Whittier Foote III, US Navy (Ret.).

She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Bruce and Jean Hatch of Abingdon, Va.; her brother and sister-in-law, Vincent II and Victoria Rusbosin of Mt. Airy, Md.; and her sister and brother-in-law, Jayne Rusbosin Stanek and Carl Stanek of Vineyard Haven, Mass; Jimmie Keeling of Georgia; and many friends and extended family. She was a loving and treasured aunt and great-aunt, adored by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Barbara had a career as a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for over 30 years serving at multiple hospitals and nursing facilities in the West Palm Beach area. She found joy in spending time with her family, and being at the ocean and beach – especially on Martha’s Vineyard, her birthplace. Barbara will always be remembered for her impeccable style, fashionable hats, and many fun shopping trips. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten by all who knew and loved her. 

A joint celebration of life will be held on Martha's Vineyard for Barbara and her son, Wade, at a later date.

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine

You make me happy when skies are gray

You'll never know dear, how much I love you

Please don't take my sunshine away”