Barbara Ann Fazzone's Obituary
Barbie Fazzone, 48, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. Barbie was a bright light to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her in this life, and she was blessed with the gift of living and loving beyond measure. Beloved wife to her husband, TJ, who to all who knew her in her 20s and 30s, was truly “the one” she had been patiently waiting for. Doting daughter to her dear mom Pam (after we got through those ornery teenage years), and much-loved big sister and sister-in-law to Sara and Jason, and her sweet niece and nephews--Noah, Grace and Jacob-who she cherished with all her heart. Barbie loved and was equally loved by her extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, stepchildren, and those who preceded her in going home to the Lord.
Barbie’s smile and wit, her love of laughter, wine and music will be an irreplaceable void in the lives of her friends, with whom she shared so many adventures (and misadventures) over the years. Those friendships, and her relationships with her husband, family, and colleagues, are a testament to the core of Barbie’s being-she was fiercely loyal, protective and a source of constant support to those she loved. She taught so many of us to never tolerate less than we deserved, to have the courage to speak up for what we wanted, and to not be embarrassed to talk about things that would make most people blush. Barbie was proud to call herself a park girl, a tribute to the many warm memories she had of growing up among family and friends in Firestone Park, and she carried that love and boldness with her when she left for college and then moved to Columbus. She was the perfect balance of always staying true to her roots, but never being afraid to take on new roles and successes in her life. She was dedicated to her career, the majority of which was spent with Nationwide, and to the success of the colleagues who became friends over the years.
Barbie’s love of people, and in genuinely knowing people, was evident in every conversation she had. Never did a friend, family member or colleague get off the hook without answering at least 27 probing questions in the span of five minutes, but never did we leave those conversations feeling anything but truly heard. Barbie had a gift in that way, of wanting to know people to their core, and in letting them know that she accepted them just as they were. While she was never short on advice, it never came from a place of judgment, but truly from her desire for those she loved to have a more genuine and fulfilled life. She prayed often and welcomed all those who prayed for her, taking comfort in knowing that when she finished her work here on earth, she would be welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven with open arms, and with many a wonderful task ahead of her as she became guardian angel to those left behind.
Our hearts are broken. But all who love her know, Barbie’s light will never be extinguished. It is too big, too bright, to ever be contained. She showed us that the morning she passed, with a brilliant sunrise to light up the morning sky. Her light will surround us always. She will be forever on TJ’s arm, in his passenger seat telling him which way to turn, soaking up the joy and warmth they shared together the day they were wed, and blessing him with the memories of her unending beauty. She will be with her mom and sister, holding them tight as they care for one another and those sweet kiddos (but always cleaning up their crumbs). She will be at every family gathering, making sure the conversation stays lively. And never will a bottle of red wine be poured among Barbie’s friends that isn’t a toast to every gift she gave us, her love, her laughter and her unending devotion to all those she held dear.
Please join us at an open house to celebrate the fabulous life and legacy of Barbie Fazzone. Just as she would have wanted, we look forward to gathering with dear family and friends, to toast the love, laughter and life that we were all blessed to share with Barbie. We will host two open house sessions on Saturday, January 8, 2022, from 12-2 and 2-4pm, at Gervasi Vineyard. Wine, beer and hors d'oeuvres will be provided. Due to current facility protocols and the large number of guests expected, we kindly ask that guests choose just one session to attend, so that we can be sure to allow time and space for all those wanting to stop in.
Gervasi Vineyard is located at 1700 55th Street NE, Canton, OH 44721. When you enter Gervasi, there is one main driveway coming in. Pass the South Vineyard and The Still House, go over the one lane bridge, and drive all the way back until you see the large building The Villa Grande, which is where we will be celebrating Barbie.
For guests who will be joining us from out of town, the Canton Courtyard Hotel is about 10 minutes away and has a shuttle that runs to/from Gervasi. There are some other hotels in the area as well, and a small number of rooms at Gervasi.
We look forward to seeing all of you and celebrating our girl in a manner that is fitting of the one and only Barbie Grubb, Mrs. Fazzone, Babs and forever Boss❤️
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?