Barbara Louise Prater - Cremation Society of Virginia

Barbara Louise Prater

April 27, 1949 - August 2, 2023

Barbara Louise Prater, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 2, 2023, at the age of 74 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was born on April 27, 1949, in Norfolk, Virginia.

Barbara led a remarkable life filled with love, compassion, and a passion for education. For many years, she dedicated herself to shaping young minds as a career elementary school teacher at Point O View Elementary in Virginia Beach. Barbara’s commitment to her students went beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on their lives.

Outside of her teaching career, Barbara had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed spending time in her garden, tending to her plants, and watching birds flock to her bird feeders. Walking through the Botanical Gardens brought her immense joy and tranquility, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling world around her.

Barbara’s journey began at Norview High School, where she graduated alongside her high school sweetheart, Don. Their love story blossomed, leading them to a cherished marriage that lasted throughout the years. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising two wonderful children, Adam and Anna. Barbara’s unwavering love and devotion were evident in every moment she spent with them.

In addition to her loving husband and children, Barbara is survived by her sister Deborah Hubbard, and her cherished grandchildren; Andrew Harmon, Caitlynn Coffman, Brandon Prater, and Taylor Coffman. She was also a beloved mother-in-law to Russell Focht and Nicole Prater.

Barbara’s warm smile, loving nature, and nurturing spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends, serving as a beacon of inspiration for kindness, dedication, and love.

Services to celebrate Barbara’s life will be held on Friday, August 11th, at 11:00 am at Community United Methodist Church in VA Beach. It will be a time for family and friends to gather, reminisce, and honor the beautiful soul that Barbara was.

May Barbara Louise Prater’s soul find eternal peace, and may her loved ones find solace in the beautiful memories they shared together.

Cremation Society of Virginia

Ricky Harmon

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Barbara Louise Prater, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 2, 2023, at the age of 74 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was born on April 27, 1949, in Norfolk, Virginia. Barbara led a remarkable life filled with love, compassion, and a passion for education. For many years, she dedicated herself to…

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I had the honor of calling Barbara my friend for over 50 years! One word to describe Barbara was Sunshine❤️ Just talking to Barbara on the phone made your day a little brighter! Barbara was such a special lady, I will forever miss her infectious laugh! No matter what she was going through Barbara always wanted to make sure everyone else was doing good! I’m just sorry Donnie & Barbara didn’t make it to GA for their visit but I’ll be eternally grateful for the time we did have together hin VA.❤️ My warmest thoughts and prayers go out Donnie, Anna and their family! Thank you for sharing your Ray of Sunshine🙏

I had the great pleasure of teaching with Barb at Point O’View and wanted to say how sad I was to hear of her passing. She was a steadfast advocate for children and went above and beyond in her duties as a teacher. She, often accompanied by her husband Donnie, was at every after school event that was held at POV, dances, Bingo, plays, PTA nights and more. You could always count on Barb to be there helping out in anyway she could, especially cutting all those cakes. We had one big thing in common. We were both born on April 27th at De Paul hospital in Norfolk, although I came around 4 years later. We always acknowledged our “twin ship” whenever our special day arrived. She wore a constant smile and an open heart. The world was a better place because of Barb. She will be missed by all those who knew her.

Wife, Mother, and Grandmother. Barbara you will be missed. Thank you for always giving a smile and being a great grandmother to Andrew! Even though I was not your son in law anymore, you always made me feel like a part of the family! I know your memory will live on in all the peoples lives you’ve touched! Rest in Paradise! Tell my Dad Hi!

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