Barbara Valentine (Weatherwax) Carter, 79, of Enfield, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on August 28, 2026, while visiting South Carolina. Born on Valentine's Day, February 14, 1947, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Barbara spent most of her life in Enfield, the place she called home for many years.

Above all else, Barbara loved her family. Her husband and children held a special place in her heart, and her love for them was immeasurable. That love only continued to grow as her family grew, with each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren bringing even more love and meaning into her life. Her family was the heart of her world, and the love she had for them was a part of who she was every single day.

Barbara had many things she truly enjoyed throughout her life. She especially loved the first snowfall of every year and had a special love for snowmen. Their smiling faces always made her happy, and she believed they had a way of bringing a little happiness to everyone who saw them. She loved playing cards and bingo, camping, crocheting, and painting. She also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved dogs. Her fur babies and fur grandbabies were truly part of her family and brought her years of love, companionship, and happiness. Whether gathered around a card table, spending time camping, creating something with her own hands, or simply enjoying the company of one of her four-legged companions, some of her most treasured moments were those shared with the ones she loved.

Barbara leaves behind her loving husband of 56 years, Wayne Carter; her children, Shirley Smith of California, Jeffrey Smith of Connecticut, Lorie Carter of South Carolina, and Barbara, Jaret Holmes of South Carolina; her grandchildren, Brittany Bair, Alexis Holmes, Justin Curry, Kyle Mogilewski, Dylan Smith, Connor Smith, and Mason Smith; her great-grandchildren, Jonah Bair, Sunny Bair, and Colette Bair; and her surviving siblings, Ann Marie Weatherwax Carter, Joanne Weatherwax Violet, and Harry Weatherwax Jr.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Wayne Carter Jr., who passed away in infancy, and Jason Scott Carter; her parents, Harry Sr. and Stella (Lengieza) Weatherwax; and her siblings, Alice Weatherwax Alzac, James Weatherwax, and Patsy Cayer. She was also preceded in death by many cherished family members and dear friends whom she deeply loved and missed, as well as beloved pets who had been part of her family throughout the years. Her family takes comfort in knowing that Barbara is now reunited with those she loved and had missed for so long - including the four-legged companions who left their own special paw prints on her heart.

Barbara's life will be remembered through the countless memories, laughter, and love she shared with those around her. Her presence touched generations of her family, and the memories they created together will become stories that are shared and treasured for years to come. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Although her place among us can never be replaced, the love she gave and the memories she leaves behind will remain forever with her family and friends.

A private celebration of Barbara's life was held with her immediate family.