Bayard Rucker Porter, 78, of Sarasota, Florida, and previously of Springfield, Virginia, passed away at home on the evening of November 7, 2018, surrounded by his family with love all around. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Barbara, whom he called “amazing,” and his daughters Erika Porter (Stanley Bean) and grandchildren Tyler and Sydney, and Eileen Statts (Pearce Statts) and grandchildren Riley and Charlotte. For Bayard, there could simply never be enough calls and visits from his daughters and grandchildren. His love and pride for his daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren was enormous. The feeling was quite mutual.
Bayard was born in Washington, DC, and grew up in Arlington, VA, earning his B.A. from The American University in Washington, DC. Upon graduation, he proudly served in the Virginia National Guard from 1964 – 1970.
The profession that truly defined Bayard was being the proud and successful owner of the Olde Towne Tennis Shop in Alexandria, VA from 1979 – 1993. Prior to that, he was the Senior Manager for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program. Additionally, Bayard was an accomplished sales professional, holding several positions throughout his career.
Bayard was passionate about gardening, home improvement, beach vacations, and cars of all kinds. Upon retirement, Bayard was able to indulge in his love of travel with his wife Barbara, cruising to ports throughout the world and visiting Hawaii. One of his favorite activities in Florida was riding around with Barbara in his beloved 1996 Mercedes convertible “Red,” while singing Jimmy Buffet songs at the top of his lungs. He enjoyed visiting local beaches to collect shells, sharks teeth, and sand dollars, and attending car shows.
Bayard truly believed that “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere." He had a quotation that he hung in his office that said “How Great Would Life Be If We Lived a Little Every Day.” Our hearts and our spirits are sad without him.
Donations may be made in Bayard’s honor to his favorite charity, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) https://www.jdrf.org/ or to an organization of your choice.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18