Paula T. Barton

Ms. Paula Thrift Barton, age 72, of Macclenny, FL was called home to be with the Lord on Monday, October 7, 2024 with her family by her side.

Ms. Barton was born to Paul and Willa Mae Thrift on July 16, 1952. Ms. Barton was a lifelong resident and loyal citizen of Baker County. She had a true desire to serve this community and most importantly, the children of this community. She served the Baker County School District for 34 years as an outstanding educator. She began her teaching career at Westside Elementary in 1974. She moved to Baker County High School and Baker County Middle School, serving in the physical education department. She was awarded the Ruth I. Shuler Award for Teaching Excellence in 1982. Ms. Barton moved into administration for several years and in 1996, she became the first female elected to the office of Superintendent of Schools, serving until her retirement in 2009. In 2014, she was elected to a seat on the Baker County School Board and served until her death. Ms. Barton will long be remembered as a pillar in the Baker County School District. She truly spent her life serving others and putting “children first.” She spent countless hours coaching various sports and mentoring students. She was a proud board member of the Baker County Medical Services and prided herself on the level of care they were able to provide to clients. Above all else, Ms. Barton enjoyed being “Jamma” to her 5 granddaughters. She played a pivotal role in their rearing and will be greatly missed.

Ms. Barton is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Tim Thrift. She is survived by her daughter, Nanette; five granddaughters, Tana, Teanna, Tinsleigh, Taragan, Timberlei Barton; brother, Joey (Bebe) Thrift, nephews, Jody Paul (Sabrina) and Jim (Miranda) Thrift; niece, Christi Thrift; and the love of her life, Dwight Barton.

A celebration of Ms. Barton’s life will be held on Monday, October 14, 2024 at 4:00pm at Christian Fellowship Temple with Brother Mark Woods officiating. The family will receive family and friends from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Interment will follow the funeral service in Oak Grove Cemetery. The arrangements are under the care of Guerry Funeral Home, 420 E Macclenny, FL, 32063, (904)259-2211. Donations to the Baker County Education Foundation which funds student and teacher scholarships will gladly be received in lieu of flowers. The foundation address is 392 South Boulevard East Macclenny, FL. 32063.