Marna Jean Barto

Marna Jean Barto, 81 of Davidson, North Carolina passed away on September 26th, 2024. Marna was born in Bellevue, Ohio on March 22nd, 1943 to the late Donald Amos and Edna Thornton and was an only child. Along with her parents, Marna is preceded in death by her grandson Ket Barrington. She is survived by her husband, Larry Barto; daughters Rachel Bauer and Stephanie Barrington; and grandchildren, Alexander Bauer, Whitney North, Reagan Barrington, Saige Barrington and Marah Barrington.

A celebration of life will be held with immediate family at a later date. 

Memorial donations may be made to Charlotte Animal Care and Control or the Carolina Raptor Center.

Marna spent most of her life in Green Springs, Ohio where she farmed alongside her husband, Larry for 61 years. She was a devoted mother and an amazing Nana. Her many years of service at Old Fort Church as a children’s choir director and youth leader touched many lives. And everyone loved a hug from Marna. Her kindness and playfulness was extended to everyone and she was an easy person to love.

Animals were a big part of her life as well. She loved riding her horses, spending time with her dogs and rehabilitating orphaned wildlife babies. She could often be found raising raccoons, birds, bunnies, opossums, and skunks. She thoroughly cherished time with her grandkids. She loved playing, baking and doing crafts with them.

Six years ago, she and Larry moved to North Carolina where she thrived being surrounded by family and friends with an abundance of laughter, love, dancing and plenty of animals to pet and hold.

She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy of unconditional love, compassion, humility and kindness live on in those who knew and loved her. 

”And now these three things remain, faith, hope and love, But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13.