Barbara Stratton

Barbara Ann Donahue Stratton, a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and community leader, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, at the age of 90, following complications from a fall.

Born on February 25, 1935, in Ridgewood, New Jersey, Barbara was the eldest of three daughters of Eugene John Donahue, Jr. and Mathilda Josephine Kopteschny Donahue. She graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1953, where she served as vice president of her class, and went on to earn her degree in early childhood education from Vassar College in 1957. At Vassar, she was an active member of the Newman Club, Supper Club, the Special Events Committee for Community Religious Organization, and the Owl and Torch Club.

Barbara married Edward George Pitts on December 21, 1956, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Ridgewood, NJ. Together they raised six children. Later in life, she married William Lee Stratton on November 24, 1993, at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in Bel Air, Maryland.

A devout Catholic, Barbara gave generously of her time and talents. She was a member of the Church Council at St. Margaret’s, participated in the Harford County branches of the AMC Cancer Research Center and the American Medical Center, and supported The Highland School. Barbara enjoyed bridge, golf, and spending time with her large and loving family.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband William Stratton, and her grandson, Grant Garman. She is survived by her six children: David (Lynn) Pitts, Laura (Vern) Smith, Robert (Kirsten) Pitts, Gregory (Erin) Pitts, Jean Garman, and Kevin (Jennifer) Pitts; 16 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren and her sisters, Jean (d. John) McDonnell and Mathilda (d. William) O’Connor.

Barbara will be remembered for her faith, warmth, and tireless dedication to her family and community.