Barbara Gartner

FUNERAL SERVICE: Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Crest Lawn Memorial Park.

OBITUARY:

Barbara Gartner, 69, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on July 22, 2026, at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas following complications from a catastrophic bowel perforation. After living courageously for many years with progressive multiple sclerosis, Barbara’s long journey came to a peaceful end.

Barbara was born on October 3, 1956, in Monticello, New York, to Estelle and Benjamin Gartner. She was raised in Ellenville, New York, where she developed an early love for art and displayed a remarkable talent for drawing. Her artistic ability was evident from childhood and remained one of her defining gifts throughout her life.

As a young woman, Barbara moved to Syracuse, New York, where she built many close and lasting friendships that enriched her life. She attended Onondaga Community College, graduating with a degree in backstage theater, where she combined her artistic creativity with an appreciation for the performing arts.

Barbara married Chris Murphy of New Jersey. Although their marriage later ended in divorce, she was a devoted wife and found great joy in caring for her beloved dachshund and terrier, whose companionship brought her comfort and happiness.

In her mid-thirties, Barbara was diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis, a disease that dramatically changed the course of her life. Despite the many physical limitations imposed by her illness, she demonstrated quiet courage and resilience over more than three decades. Throughout her illness, Barbara retained a remarkably sharp long-term memory. She delighted in recalling people, names, stories, and family relationships, a gift that allowed her to maintain meaningful connections with those she loved.

Barbara eventually moved to Dallas, Texas, where she was able to be close to her brother, Dr. Jay Gartner, whose care and unwavering devotion provided comfort and guidance throughout the course of her illness. During her illness, she resided in several care facilities, spending her final years at The Meadows in Dallas. The family is deeply grateful to the physicians, nurses, caregivers, and staff who cared for Barbara with kindness, compassion, and dignity throughout her long illness.

Barbara found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed classic television mysteries and detective series, especially Matlock and Columbo, as well as vintage television game shows and the beloved sitcom Friends. She also looked forward to favorite meals and treats, including Subway sandwiches, Chinese food, and sushi. Above all, she treasured spending Thanksgiving with her family, a tradition that brought her great comfort and lasting memories.

Barbara also possessed a unique, feisty spirit that endeared her to those who knew her best. Beneath her determination was a warm heart that fostered lasting connections with family, friends, and the many caregivers who became an important part of her life. Her resilience, wit, and unmistakable personality left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Barbara will be remembered for her artistic spirit, gentle heart, enduring friendships, and the grace with which she faced extraordinary challenges.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Estelle and Benjamin Gartner.

Barbara is survived by her brothers, Larry Gartner and Dr. Jay Gartner, who will forever cherish her memory and the bond they shared.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Crestlawn Cemetery in Atlanta.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in honor of Barbara’s courageous lifelong battle with multiple sclerosis and in support of continued research, treatment, and assistance for others living with the disease.

May Barbara’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.