Barbara Rodgers of Key Colony Beach, Florida died on August 4, 2025, in Valhalla, NY after a long illness, with her loving family by her side.
Barbara Jean Joyce was born December 27,1954 in Teaneck, New Jersey, the second daughter of Katherine and Robert Joyce. Her family, including elder sister Joan, lived in Maywood NJ and later relocated to Wyckoff NJ, where Barbara would graduate from Ramapo High School in 1972.

Barbara began working as a hairdresser in New Jersey but drove down to the Keys in her early twenties to be with her mother, Kay, after the sudden death of her father. This event wound up having a significant silver lining, as it was where she'd meet her husband Bill Rodgers, a local charter boat captain and the future father of her daughter, Tracy. Bill, Barbara and Tracy lived happily in a duplex on Key Colony Beach, with Barbara's mother, Kay, living in the other half until Kay's death in 1998.

Once her own child began elementary school, Barbara discovered her calling in early childhood education. She began working at the Community Co-op Preschool in Marathon, first as a teacher and eventually as the Director. She remained in the classroom there for nearly 30 years, and would've happily worked there for another 30 if she'd been able. Over the years, thousands of children benefited from her ferocious belief in their futures.

After health difficulties forced her to retire in her early sixties, Barbara sought medical treatment in New York but always hoped to return to her beloved home in the Keys. Despite her illness, she enjoyed traveling, going to the movies, spending time with family, and staying up to date on her favorite shows like The Big Bang Theory and General Hospital.

She is survived by her daughter, Tracy Rodgers, and her grandson Billy Fusaro.

A Celebration of Life will be held August 20 at 10am at San Pablo Catholic Church in Marathon.