Mary Elizabeth (Colton) Barfield

MARY ELIZABETH COLTON BARFIELD

October 14, 1942 – February 17, 2026

Mary Elizabeth Colton Barfield, beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born in Carteret, New Jersey, Mary carried a quiet strength and gentle spirit throughout her life. Early in her adult years, she lived and taught in Hawaii, a place that held special meaning for her — not only for its beauty, but because it was there she met the love of her life, William Barfield. Mary later spent most of her years in Jonesboro, Georgia, enjoyed retirement in Cartersville, and treasured her final years surrounded by family in Acworth and Eatonton, Georgia — places filled with the people she loved most.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret Hila Colton and Paul Henry Colton, and by her husband, William Barfield.

She is survived by her loving sisters, Sue Shipman of Carteret, New Jersey, and her husband, Frank Shipman; and Karen Poole of Frederick, Maryland, and her husband, Ron Poole. She leaves behind two children who were the pride of her life: her son, Brian Barfield of Flowery Branch, Georgia, and his wife, Kendra Barfield, and their daughter, Mary Katherine Barfield; and her daughter, Carolyn Glaze of Eatonton, Georgia, and her husband, Derrick Glaze, along with their children, Harrison Glaze, Colton Glaze, and Dyllon Glaze. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews whom she adored.

Mary spent her career as a teacher, a calling that reflected her patient heart and quiet wisdom. She was a voracious reader, always happiest with a good book nearby, and she found joy in life’s simple pleasures — a walk on the beach, the sound of the waves, or watching a peaceful sunset.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was deeply proud of her grandchildren and followed their lives with genuine interest and delight, celebrating their accomplishments, encouraging their dreams, and loving them with a steady and unwavering heart. Known for her kindness and gentle nature, Mary was a calm and comforting presence to those around her. She cherished ordinary moments spent together, teaching all who knew her that a life lived with contentment, grace, and quiet love is a life well lived.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love her.

Forever in our hearts.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 1 PM until 2 PM at A.E. Carter Funeral Home.  The memorial service will be held in the chapel at 2 PM.

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