Barbara J. (Ayres) Minopoli

Barbara J. (Ayres) Minopoli, age 66, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, surrounded by loving family and friends.  Barbara was born on May 24, 1958, to William and Prudence Ayres in Bridgeport, CT.  She was a former long-time resident of Stratford, CT, and was currently residing in Seymour, CT along with her dog, Lucy, and two cats.  

Barbara grew up in Lordship, CT, and had lifetime friends, Irene (Fogg) Malota and Joann Lincoln.  They loved to hang at the Seawall and go for Cricket hot dogs.  A special thank you for always being by her side.

On Sunday afternoons, along with her friend, Gary, Barbara enjoyed watching football.  She was a big fan of the Tampa Bay Bucs and would always have on her Tampa Bay attire including her slippers that her niece, Lori Martino, bought her every year for Christmas.  Barbara also spent time with friends and went on long motorcycle rides.  She loved listening to music and talking on the phone with her sister, Patty, who lived in Florida, and sang songs including, by her favorite artists, Carol King, the Eagles, and Jimmy Buffet.   She also enjoyed playing Word Games with her niece, Lori Martino, who was there to provide her with enduring love and support throughout life and her illness.  

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Ralph Minopoli, whose love for her never wavered.  Their bond endured through miles and moments, and his unwavering support carried her through life’s trials and triumphs.  His presence was felt in the everyday:  in the quiet strength she carried, in the comfort of knowing she was never truly alone.  Together, even apart, they built a life grounded in faith, in loyalty, and in a deep understanding of one another’s hearts.  To the end, he loved her-fiercely, faithfully, and without condition.  She knew this, and she carried that love with her through every step of her journey.

Barbara is also survived by her son, Steven Ayres (Patricia), and her five grandchildren, Anthony, Alex, Angel, Jackson, and Benjamin.  Her two siblings, Patty Little (Terry), and Billy Ayres (Bonnie) and several nieces and nephews.  Barbara was predeceased by her parents, William and Prudence Ayres, and her sister Elaine Wilkinson.  Funeral services will be private.