Cynthia A. Barbat

August 4, 1941 – October 14, 2025

Cynthia A. Barbat of San Diego, California passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the age of 84. She was born on August 4, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, where she grew up surrounded by art, books, and music—learning to play both the violin and piano.

Cynthia graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in education, where she began her lifelong journey as an educator and met her future husband, Virgil. She later earned her Master’s in Education from USIU in San Diego while working full time—a testament to her dedication and perseverance.

In July 1963, Cynthia and Virgil drove west in their beloved green ’48 Chrysler, settling in San Diego to begin their new life together. Cynthia started her career as an elementary school teacher before taking a 16-year break to raise their two children.

Both proud of their Eastern European heritage, Cynthia and Virgil were founding members of Holy Angels Byzantine Catholic Church, where Cynthia was actively involved in the choir and in countless parish activities—baking, fundraising, and celebrating cultural traditions. She never sat still, finding joy in every creative outlet: playing in local orchestras and string quartets, and hand-decorating intricate Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter eggs). Cynthia even taught Pysanky classes at the San Diego Museum of Man, where her eggs were featured and sold in the museum’s gift shop.

Her love of culture and the arts filled her family’s home. She dedicated herself to nurturing her children’s interests—driving them to music lessons, orchestra, dance, acting, swim classes, scouting, zoo school, and family camp near Yosemite. She sewed Halloween costumes and matching outfits, mastered the art of entertaining, and believed in the importance of thoughtful details, from presentation to perfectly wrapped gifts. Fearless in the kitchen, she delighted in sharing good food and laughter with those she loved.

For decades, Cynthia’s home was also the neighborhood music hub—she taught piano lessons to countless local children, filling her living room with the joyful sounds of practice sessions and yearly recitals that brought together families from up and down the street.

Beyond music and teaching, Cynthia believed deeply in the power of community. Alongside the beloved “San Simeone Gourmet Group,” which she and Virgil participated in for more than 34 years, she also helped organize both a neighborhood babysitting co-op and a produce co-op, ensuring families supported one another. These connections expanded to the children and to many other families, creating a tight-knit network where holidays, milestones, and simple weeknights were celebrated together.

After more than two decades of teaching first grade in the San Diego Unified School District, Cynthia embraced retirement in 2003 with her characteristic enthusiasm. She completed a year-long Bible study, joined two book clubs, became active in a women’s philanthropic organization (P.E.O.), and found sisterhood and laughter with her Red Hat group. She and Virgil traveled widely in retirement, often taking three or more international trips each year, exploring the world hand in hand.

Being an only child, Cynthia cherished her friends as family, building lasting bonds that brought joy and support throughout her life.

She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Virgil; her children David (Jamaica) and Sara (David); and her adored grandchildren, Sam, Avery, Brix, and Bishop.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Glenner Center and Apreva Hospice for their compassion in caring for Cynthia.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Cynthia’s honor may be made to The Glenner Center (https://glenner.org/tribute-memorial-gift).

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at Holy Angels Byzantine Catholic Church (2235 Galahad Rd., San Diego) on October 29 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. A graveside burial service will follow at El Camino Memorial Park (5600 Carroll Canyon Rd., San Diego) from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m. A reception will follow; details to be announced.