Barbara Jean Martin

A Life of Grace, Joy, and Service

Barbara J. Martin, born August 10, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 25, 2025, after a courageous three-year experience with Alzheimer’s disease. Her final moments were filled with love, surrounded by those who cherished her most.

Barb’s radiant presence touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Even in the face of illness, she uplifted those around her with joy and grace. Her life was a testament to love, compassion, and unwavering positivity. Her absence leaves a profound void in the hearts of family, friends, and even those who met her only briefly.

Family was the cornerstone of Barb’s life. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dick Martin; her daughter, Stacie (Dale) Mosley; her son, Michael (Mary Lou) Fitzer; and her beloved grandchildren: Ruby Fitzer, Sid Fitzer, and Raemi (Matt) Paxton. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Ezekiel and Aurelia Paxton.

She is lovingly remembered by her siblings, Mike (Ann) Skinner and Pam (Alan) Fenn; nieces and nephews Meghan (Art) Jordan, Erin Skinner (Adam Eddy), Emily (Adam) Lesser, and Ben Fenn; and many great-nieces, a great-nephew, cousins, and lifelong friends. Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Ernie and Irene Skinner, who instilled in her a strong work ethic, deep values, and a love of family above all else.

Barb was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, graduating from Linden McKinley High School and attending The Ohio State University. Her natural patience and love for children led her to begin her career as a preschool teacher. She later transitioned into the business world, spending over 30 years at International Monetary Systems, where she retired as Vice President. Her leadership and integrity earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Beyond her professional achievements, Barb was deeply committed to her community. She coached little league softball in the 1970s, served as commissioner of Forest Park Umpires in the 1980s, and held a board position with Ohio Special Olympics. Her leadership in organizing the annual Jimmy Crum Labor of Love Charity Golf Outing (LOLA) helped raise millions for Ohio Special Olympics, Recreation Unlimited, and Easter Seals.

Barb will be remembered for her boundless positivity, radiant smile, and infectious laughter. She had a rare gift for spreading kindness and joy, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. Whether dancing to her favorite song, soaking up the sun at the beach, or sharing stories with loved ones, Barb lived each moment with warmth and gratitude.

Since January 2024, Barb resided at Sage Park Memory Care in Gahanna. Despite the challenges of her illness, she continued to bring joy and warmth to those around her. Her family is deeply grateful for the exceptional care and heartfelt compassion she received during her time there.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barb’s life on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Schoedinger-North, 5554 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229. A funeral service will be held from 4:00pm-5:00pm, followed by a visitation from 5:00-7:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to My Mom’s Mind, a nonprofit organization founded in Barb’s honor to benefit Alzheimer's patients and caregivers:

https://gofund.me/c4a07e89

Barb’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.