Constantina Barnhill

Constantina “Coly” Marica Barnhill, 81, died Saturday, July 23, 2011 at her home in Agay, (St. Raphael) France. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Dalinda Mazzoleni Erba and Giovanni Bruni and four sisters. She is survived by her husband, David P. Barnhill.

Coly was born in Palazzago, Italy near Lake Como on May 17, 1930. She obtained a degree in architecture from a university in Milan, Italy. She made a living as a professional artist in Europe doing sculptures and oil paintings. An entire altar was done by her in Salsa Maggiore, Italy. She met her husband, David in Milan, Italy while he was working as a consultant for Alfa Romeo. They were married on August 17, 1961. She loved flowers and dogs and loved to do home improvements and additions. Her favorite dogs were Samoyeds and Saint Bernards, especially her own dog, Dono. She lived with her husband for many years in California, in Seattle, Washington, in McLean, Virginia, in Tuxedo Park, New York, New Jersey, and Florida. In 1999 they bought a chateau in France and then in 2005 bought a second home on the Riviera in southern France where she passed away. Although she did not enjoy traveling, she went many places with her husband during his career as a financial consultant and chief financial officer. The places included London, Paris, Rome, Copenhagen, Dusseldorf, Scandanavia, Iran, Montreal, Casablanca, Mexico, Spain, and Hawaii. Her real love was the chateau in St. Legger De Fougeret, France where she designed and created her own lake.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Diamond St. Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield, conducted by Pastor Charles Barnhill. Friends may call one hour prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Little Washington Cemetery.