Sophia C. Barbarise

Sophia C. Barbarise, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on May 2nd, at the age of 95. A lifelong resident of Norfolk, she was born and raised in Colonial Place, attended Maury High School, and began her professional career in preventive medicine with the Fifth Naval District.
After marrying her lifelong companion, Ralph, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Sophia devoted herself to raising their three children in a home filled with warmth, love, and enduring tradition. She was a voracious reader and a dedicated volunteer in the library at St. Pius X School, where her children were educated. For nearly two decades, she also served as the bookkeeper for the successful small business she and Ralph built together.
Known affectionately as "Yia-Yia" by her grandchildren, Sophia took immense joy in attending their school events, sports competitions, and performances. Her presence was constant, her support unwavering. Even in later years, she demonstrated remarkable resilience-overcoming breast cancer and embracing life as fully as possible while living with dementia for the last seven years of her life.
Sophia's family was the center of her world. She is survived by her beloved husband of 68 years, Ralph; daughters Deborah (Udo) Goff and Angela (Sean) Segerblom; son Ralph J. (Annette) Barbarise; grandchildren Nicholas and Eleni Segerblom; and her sister, Joanna Cleary. She will be remembered always for her strong work ethic, warm smile, and the kindness and humility that defined her.
A private graveside service was held on Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. A celebration of Sophia's life will be planned for a future date.