Joseph Barton

A Celebration of Joe's Life will be at

The Colony in Woodstock

Sept. 11, 2024 at 6pm

Woodstock-

 Joseph "Joe" Barton, a man of remarkable talent and passion, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024, in Woodstock, just a week shy of his 78th birthday. Born on July 27, 1946, in Newark, New Jersey, Joe was the son of the late Daniel and Wilhelmina Silvia Barton. His life was a testament to his selfless nature and his unwavering dedication to his family, art/music, his community and his country.

    He was a veteran of the US Navy.  He served in Vietnam from 1964 to 1968, having received the Vietnam Service Medal with one Campaign Star. His experiences during the war would later fuel his passion for raising awareness about current events, advocating for peace and veterans' rights.  He later became a big activist in the Peace Movement.
    
     Joe and his wife Carol were both present at the original Woodstock Festival in Bethel, and later had five children together.  He was a true hippy, who formerly had lived in a commune, and had a passion for Rock ‘n Roll music.  Joe managed a rock band in New York City and later became friends with members of The Band and The New Riders of the Purple Sage.  His favorite artist was Bob Dylan.  Joe put together the Woodstock free festivals in Bethel from 1989 - 1993.  In 1994, Joe put on Freedomfest which was a 10 day music concert.  Joe also organized plenty of "benefit" concerts where he setup the sound system and booked bands to play to raise money for causes, such as the veterans or civil rights.  He was always willing to help support a cause if it was a good cause. He had an affinity for marijuana long before its legalization, and became well educated about the law as a matter of self-preservation and to try to make right, laws that were unjust.  He often defended himself, and taught others about the legal system. Joe was a force to be reckoned with in the court room, but was always respectful.  They always asked people to come to court to witness and support them, so their voice would be stronger.  
     
     For over 30 years, Joe was a vibrant part of the Woodstock community where he continued to pursue his interests in the arts and civil rights movement.  Joe met Paula at a Marijuana Rally up in Albany, organized to voice support for the legalization of marijuana.  Joe and Paula fell deeply in love and found they both had many of the same interests and complimented each other well.  They were married for 10 years until Paula passed away in 2020.  Joe and Paula were both very active in fighting for freedom, rights and educating people so they had the information they needed to make informed decisions in life.  They both were actively involved in productions at the Manhattan Neighborhood Network and Woodstock Public Access TV. Joe also hosted the show "Pot Talk with Joe Barton" on Radio Woodstock 104, where he engaged with listeners on a variety of topics, always aiming to enlighten and educate. Paula had a show called "Farther down the rabbit hole with Paula Gloria."  Paula was a HUGE part of Joe’s life. Joe always wanted to be in love and find the right woman.  Not a day went by that he didn't say how lucky he was to have found Paula as he couldn't have asked for anyone more perfect for him.  They were always together and the community knew them as Joe and Paula.

    Joe channeled his creative spirit into the arts. He was a talented artist, wood carver, sculptor, and made women's jewelry.  Joe was also a good story teller and was fun to listen to.  He was working on a video/audio biographical book about his adventures with Charlie, his lifelong best friend.

    Joe is survived by his children: Love Debberman and her husband John Mance, Jay, Joy, Jesse, and Sarra Debberman, sister Maryanne, and mother of his children Carol Debberman.  He was predeceased by his loving wife Paula, and previous wife Dawn, as well as a brother, Daniel Barton.

    Those who knew Joe would describe him as a man of passion. He poured his heart into every aspect of his life, from his art to his family to his advocacy work. Joe was also selfless, often putting the needs of others before his own, and his generosity knew no bounds.

    As we say goodbye to Joseph Barton, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest. He touched the lives of many and his contributions to the arts, civil rights movement and his community will not be forgotten. Joe's story is one of courage, creativity, and compassion, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege to know him.

    The world has lost a truly remarkable man, but the memories of Joe will forever be a beacon of light for his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. His was a life well-lived, and he will be deeply missed.

    A graveside service will be held on Thursday at 12 noon at the Woodstock Cemetery.  If you wish, donations of food in memory of Joe may be made to the Good Neighbor Food Pantry in Woodstock.  You may share a special memory, photo or condolence with the family on Joe's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph Barton, please visit our floral store.