Barbara Jean Newton, age 72, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, in Tampa, Florida, surrounded by her children.
Barbara was born on March 10, 1953, in Warner Robins, Georgia, to Henry and Sarah Otter. She was the middle of three children and graduated from the University of South Florida. Her deep love for family and community guided everything she did.
Barbara is survived by her two children: Geoffrey Newton (Andrea Zyrek) and Laura Newton Gross (Dylan Gross), and by the light of her life—her four grandchildren: Sophia, Keegan, Anthony, and Rory. Nothing brought her more pride or joy than being their “Oma.”
A lifelong advocate for youth sports, Barbara dedicated her career to growing the game of soccer across the state. She worked for many years with the Florida Youth Soccer Association, where her passion and commitment left a lasting legacy. In 2017, she was inducted into the FYSA Hall of Fame in recognition of her tireless efforts and profound impact on the soccer community.
Barbara will be remembered for her warm heart, sharp wit, and unwavering devotion to the people and causes she loved. She touched countless lives through her work and her role as a mother, grandmother, and friend.
A service will be held on Friday, October 10th at 11:00 a.m. at Tampa Cremation and Burial Service (8109 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd, Tampa, 33619). All are welcome.
The family will also host a Celebration of Life following the service at Wulfaven Brewing Company (10828 Perez Dr. Tampa 33618) beginning at 2:00 p.m.
Condolences
Getting to meet and know Barb was an added benefit of my friendship with Maggie. Every time I was around her, she made me feel welcome. That was just her; kind, fun, and welcoming 🙏
With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Barbara Newton, a beloved member of the Florida soccer community and a dedicated servant to the Florida Youth Soccer Association. Barbara’s passion, commitment, and decades of service helped shape the foundation of youth soccer in our state, touching the lives of countless players, coaches, and families.
Her legacy is felt in every field where children play the game she loved, and her tireless efforts have left an enduring impact on FYSA and the broader soccer family in Florida. Beyond her service, Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering belief in the value of soccer to bring people together.
We are deeply grateful for her contributions, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Barbara’s work will live on in the countless young athletes she inspired and in the vibrant soccer community she helped nurture.
My sincerest condolences to the family. Barb was first my co-worker but quickly became my friend. We’d often eat lunch together at work, talking about sports and our grandbabies!! When she told me that she was retiring to be a full time grandma, I was so sad and happy at the same time because I knew she was getting ready to live her best life!!! I will miss her immensely! Prayers for the Lord Jesus Christ to surround this family in love and peace. 🙏🏽🕊❤️
Laura and Family sorry to hear about the loss of your mother! She was certainly a huge influence in my life, both personally and professionally. Sending my love and prayers and know that your mom is keeping everyone in stitches I’ve been having.
Much love, Siggi Nagele, siggi.nagele@gmail.com or 727–4 24–4071
Although I didn’t know her well, it was obvious that her two children were her proudest accomplishments, and her four grandchildren, her brightest stars. May her beautiful memory comfort you now.
One of the sweetest and kindest women you could ever know.
Prayers to all of her family.
May she Rest in Peace 🙏🏻
Although I only met Barb a few times (baby showers and wedding events) she made me feel welcomed and like I was immediately part of the family. I can’t thank Dylan and Laura enough for allowing me into their lives so that I could have met such a wonderfully kind person like Barb. I know she will always be in the hearts of her family and loved ones. RIP Barb
I’m so sorry to hear about Barb. She was so nice and dedicated herself to helping soccer be better for our youth. She will be sadly missed.