Barbara Claire Coots-Rutan

Barbara Coots-Rutan, 84, of Compton, Arkansas, passed away on November 4, 2023.  Barbara was born July 6, 1939, in Brockton, Massachusetts, the daughter of Leander and Irene Brown Coots.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald J. Rutan Sr., her brother Leander Coots and sister, Luella Gibbons. 

Barbara loved the ocean!  Being raised in Massachusetts was a perfect fit for her and her 7 siblings.  There was nothing she enjoyed more than fishing and camping oceanside in her younger years, whenever possible.   Later, when she met and married her husband Donald, on November 19, 1964, they passed down their love of the outdoors to their children.  There were many long-distance and cross-country camping trips made in a converted Volkswagen bus!  Such great memories! 

In 1995, Barbara moved to Compton, Arkansas.  The family purchased a beautiful piece of land in the Ozark mountains, and still live there to this day. 

Barbara is survived by her daughter Wendy (Paul) Watters, of Compton, Arkansas, her son, Donald Jr. (Susan) Rutan of Springhill, Tennessee, and daughter Kelly Rutan of Claremont, New Hampshire.  Barbara is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and her first great-great-grandchild is on the way.  She also leaves her siblings, Joe, Melvin, Ilene, William and Mary, all of Massachusetts, along with many nieces, nephews and greats, and many loving close and personal friends, she loved you all!

A Special Note **

To Whom it may concern:  With all our thoughts and love.  We were not able to put everything we wanted in mom’s obituary.  As Barbara’s family we want to thank our special caregivers and friends that assisted with helping “The Village”.   We love and cherish you all!

A private service will be held at a later date.