Barbara Santoro

In Loving Memory of Barbara Santoro 1941–2025
Barbara Santoro, age 83, passed away on August 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unforgettable warmth. She was the devoted wife of 45 years to Mario Santoro, whose steadfast love was the guiding light in her life. Their bond was her greatest joy, a connection filled with laughter, tenderness, and enduring devotion.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband Mario; her brothers Ted Poppiti and Larry Poppiti (Patricia); her brothers-in-law Fred Santoro (Bella) and Elio Santoro (JoAnn); her remarkable uncle, Warren Poppiti, whose century of wisdom she treasured; her stepchildren, Gerald Santoro, Donna Bartholomew, Daniel Santoro (Julie), and Christa Russo (Richard); her grandchildren Kira Keenan (John), Andrew Bartholomew, Jenna Malette (Richard King), Jaqueline Giordano (Alexander), Kathryn Santoro, Lauren Russo, Julia Russo, Hanna Santoro (Tanner Massey), and Molly Seebach (Charles); several great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom she loved very much.
Barbara spent many fulfilling years at Verizon, retiring with her cherished best friend, Chris Healy. She found beauty in everyday moments and joy in giving back. In her later years, she volunteered at Stage West Playhouse, where she made lifelong friends and where her love of the arts found a natural home. Her days were often filled with laughter, shared stories, and quality time spent with treasured friends and loved ones.
A spirited soul, Barbara adored cruising, trying her luck at the casino, and playing the lottery. She embraced life's simple pleasures with gusto-but at the center of it all was her unwavering love for Mario. That love was her true north, and everyone who saw them together witnessed something deeply special.
Barbara's presence was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved her. She lived with heart, and her spirit will forever live on in the lives she touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Stage West Playhouse, 8390 Forest Oaks Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34606. All friends and family are warmly invited to attend and share in remembrance.