Edward's obituary
Survived by his mother Mary D. Barton and siblings Barbara Jean Barton, Robert Kane Barton, Sarah Barton Jackson (Kerry Jackson), Allen Jones, Dawn Wright, Kali Swainston, and Joshua Edward Barton. Edward was preceded in death by his father, Edward Moore Barton.
Edward is described by everyone that knew him as incredibly intelligent; a deep thinker with a thirst for knowledge that drove a love for books and learning. Edward was also a deep feeler; he was drawn to anyone who suffered from the pain of trauma, loss, addiction and mental illness. This empathy was born out of a deep personal understanding through his own experiences.
These qualities are what drove Edward as a passionate activist and advocate for others. Edward gave countless hours as both a volunteer and staff at organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous, USARA, The Road Home, and First Step House. Edward found a deep sense of community and love in these organizations and his role as a human service worker.
A punk rocker until the end, Edward loved music and treasured his record collection. He found so much comfort and camaraderie in the sounds of his favorite punk and hardcore bands. Edward loved to share his love of music with others, and found connection with anyone who loved it as much as he did.
Edward was loved by so many. Even in his deepest suffering, he was always kind. His soft heart and endless love for his friends and family may have been part of why he felt so deeply and often struggled so much to thrive in a world of superficiality. Edward had a special connection with both of his parents, and lived with immense grief at the passing of his father, Edward Sr. - his “rock” as he described him. He found comfort and a best friendship in his relationship to his mother, Mary, who he loved deeply. Edward also shared a special connection with his former partner, Mara, who he spent some of the best years of his life with.
Virtual services will be Saturday Feb 6th 2021 at 11 a.m., via Zoom. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Edward Barton Memorial Fund. If you are struggling with the impact of trauma and addiction, please seek help by calling 1-800-662-HELP.
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