August 13, 1929 - December 27, 2023
Williamsburg, Virginia - Barbara Wakefield Baxter, mother, wife, grandmother and great-grandmother, died peacefully on 27 December 2023, surrounded by the love of caring family and friends in her home in Williamsburg, Virginia, at the age of 94.
She was born in Buffalo, New York, daughter of Annabelle Nagel Wakefield and Dr. Bernard Greever Wakefield, growing up in Kenmore, New York, attending Buffalo Seminary and graduated from Michigan State University.
She married her husband, Dr. Robert R. Baxter Jr., in November of 1951 and they settled in Lockport, New York.
A talented and avid artist, she made clothes, painted fine china, embroidered elegant pieces and crafted exquisite miniatures. She was an active member of the Embroiderers' Guild of America, contributing to restoration of many embroidery pieces at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota, Florida and was a lifetime member of the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts.
After retiring, she and her husband moved to Bradenton, Florida where they became increasingly involved with Southeastern Guide Dogs. Over more than 20 years, they sponsored a number of guide dogs and training scholarships.
Barbara is survived by her three children, Dr Laurelle Ann Baxter, Robert R. Baxter 3rd, and Julie Wakefield Baxter, seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her husband, Dr. Robert R Baxter Jr., and her brother, B. Dick Wakefield.
Memorial donations may be made to "Southeastern Guide Dogs", 4210 77th St E, Palmetto, Florida 34221. https:// www.guidedogs.org
A private memorial will be held at a later date.
