Barbara Allene Ingle

A native and lifelong resident of Sarasota, Barbara Allene Ingle passed away on September 2, 2025 at age 87. Born in Sarasota on October 6, 1937, Barbara graduated from Sarasota High School in 1956 and later attended the University of Florida before marrying her first husband, Houston Hughes, in 1957. Barbara and Houston were divorced in 1971, and Barbara later married A.J. Ingle in 1976. Barbara is survived by three biological children from her first marriage (Vikki Neill, Kathy Sample and Craig Hughes) and three stepchildren from her second marriage (Billye Marie Ingle, Andrew Ingle and John Ingle), along with four spouses of her children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Barbara’s interests spanned a range of subjects including religion, politics, culture, art, music, education and science. She was an active member of many organizations including The Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, The Cousteau Society and The National Museum of African American History & Culture.

During her career Barbara had many roles: a model promoting Sarasota as a tourist destination, an executive assistant in banking, a self-employed homebuilder, a customer service representative for medical services and devices, and transportation specialist for Sarasota County School District where she worked with special needs children. Her hobbies included reading, drawing, creating works of art, deep sea fishing and writing.

Known for her social skills and creativity, Barbara was sensitive to others' perspectives, helped those in need, and celebrated the achievements of others. She maintained many long-lasting friendships and she left a legacy of love and kindness which touched the hearts and lives of many. Her radiance and enthusiasm for life lives on within all of us who knew her.

A celebration of life service for Barbara will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 1 PM at Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center, 4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton, FL 34211 with a reception to follow until 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Tidewell Hospice: support.tidewellfoundation.org.