Barbara Lee Veitenthal

Barbara Lee Veitenthal, a true beacon of love, kindness, and compassion has completed her earthly journey and entered into eternal rest on December 28, 2025, at her home in Ashburn, Virginia, surrounded by her loving Daughters Dawn and Carol, and her devoted caregivers.

Born on March 20, 1933, in Washington, DC, Barbara's life was a testament to the power of love, grace, and compassion. A Christian by faith, she embodied the teachings of Christ, living a life that exemplified the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, AND gentleness.

Barbara's life was a portrait of devotion; she was a beloved wife to the late Charles B. Veitenthal, a nurturing mother to Dawn (Rich) and Carol (Jacques), and a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother to Richie,(Sarah), Christina,(Collin), Cohen, Shay, and Little Richie.

Her love extended to her dear nieces and nephews, Nancy Marmaras,(Peter), Ed Veitenthal, and Ann Boetler,(Donnie), each cherished for their unique bond with her.

Her caregiving and loving angels on earth, Sathian, Bunkong, Nuthong, and Pam, along with a host of other adoring family and friends, were blessed by her large presence in their lives.

In her professional life, Barbara was the embodiment of excellence as a proud team member of the American Automobile Association. She greeted each guest as the lead receptionist, with her signature blend of professionalism and warmth, earning her the affectionate title of the "Face of AAA." Her advocacy for equal pay for women, highlighted in a 1976 AAA front page newsletter, serves as a testament to her forward-thinking and principled character.

Superiors and colleagues alike recognized her as an invaluable asset, praising her work ethic and dedication.

Barbara's life was an unending source of inspiration. She balanced her professional achievements with an unwavering and amazing commitment and love to her family. She was the quintessential Superwoman, caring for her husband, daughters, and their beloved dog, Colonel Abba, with unmatched grace and devotion.

Her presence for us to be at the dinner table together, where she encouraged family time and shared meals, despite a very busy schedule for all, was the heart of the Veitenthal home.

The family then moved to Mom and Dad's dream home at Lowes Island where they enjoyed many years in their beautiful home, with adventurous times, and wonderful lifelong friends and neighbors. Their love of exploration and community involvement continued with walks around Lowe's Island and Dulles Town Center Mall, never missing a chance to engage with those around them

In 2015, Barbara and Charles moved to Ashburn to Ashby Ponds, a beautiful retirement community where they thrived in the company of friends and enjoyed the simple pleasures of happy hours and dinners and meeting new friends.

Barbara's love and affinity with animals was evident, as they were naturally drawn to her kind spirit during her walks. Just as in life, Mom never met someone that was not a true friend to her, including animals, especialy dogs! They gravitated to Barbara!

Barbara and Charles cherished their retirement years, traveling the world and forming lasting friendships. . Barbara's love for music and voracious reading, provided her comfort and joy, including her "Jesus Calling" book introduced to her by her dear friend Jul, and all her wonderful Dog, Baby and Bird books, so much loved by Mom in her later years.

In the spirit of Barbara's Christian faith and her motivational outlook on life, we are reminded by Helen Keller, "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Barbara's legacy of love and kindness is now a part of us all.

As we say our earthly and sad goodbyes, we take solace in knowing that Barbara's circle of life has been completed with peace and dignity. Barbara is and was truly the epitome of both beauty and grace in this world and will continue to be our shining star.

Her journey to heaven was as serene as her presence in our lives. We are heartbroken by her departure but find comfort in our beloved and cherished memories.

Barbara Lee Veitenthal lived a life filled with love and compassion, and for that, we are eternally grateful. We love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!

Rest in peace, dear Barbara; your spirit will always continue to inspire and guide us. We love you forever and always!

Interment will be held Wednesday, January 7th at 11am at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, Virginia

"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy, when skys are grey, you never know dear, how much I love you, please don't take my sunshine away".

"Enjoy Yourself, It's later than you think, the years go by, as quickly as a wink, Enjoy yourself, enjoy yourself, it's later than you think!"

"Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand. I'm tired, I'm weak, I'm lone, Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light, take my hand precious Lord, lead me home".