Barbara S. Gaynor June 28, 1935 - April 5, 2022

Boca Raton, Florida Barbara was born in Philadelphia and moved to Miami in the 1950’s. A lifelong learner and advocate for education, she graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago and earned a Masters’ degree from the University of Miami. Barbara is best known as a “classy lady” and a paragon of strength, graciousness, and determination. A single mother of three children, she survived breast cancer in 1981, a mastectomy, nine months of chemo and always felt lucky to be alive. Her career has been in Fund Raising with The New World Symphony, FIU, U of M, the Preforming Arts Center, and The March of Dimes. In 1995, her son John, died of AIDS complications. With fervent passion, Barbara turned her pain into purpose and founded Mothers’ Voices South Florida, a non-profit organization. Together with founding members and a dedicated staff, Mothers’ Voices educational programs helped the community face issues of sexuality, HIV/AIDS/STD’S and drug use. From Miami to Washington DC, Barbara was a highly regarded speaker/ activist receiving honors for her dynamic contributions. In 2007, November 15th was proclaimed the Barbara Gaynor Day by the Miami Dade Office of the Mayor and the the Woman of Valor Award from the NCJW. In retirement, Barbara contributed to her community as a member of the Boca Pointe Pap Corps, Clowns on Call and feeding the homeless. Barbara Gaynor’s life exemplified that each of us has within our soul great power to do good. She will be greatly missed and always remembered for her dedication to her children and grandchildren. Barbara is survived by children, Charles Coleman and Dr. Susie Coleman; grandchildren Jacob, Eli, and Nina Couture; cousins; and many close friends. Barbara was predeceased by her son John Coleman, husband Robert Gaynor. A memorial service will be held April 13, 2022, 11:30 a.m. at Temple Beth El, 333 S.W. 4th Avenue, Boca Raton, Florida 33432. Donations: John M. Coleman Memorial Scholarship, Miami Dade College Foundation, 300 NE 2nd Ave, Room 1423-1, Miami, Fl 33132.