Barry F. Battista

Barry F. Battista, also referred to lovingly as "B" by close friends, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. Barry was born on November 17th, 1970, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and grew up predominantly in Virginia. He attended Auburn University, where he excelled academically, before receiving the prestigious Hertz Fellowship and attending Vanderbilt University. While pursuing his doctoral degree, he met his wife, Gilda, and married in Nashville. He spent his professional career with Sverdruo and TecMasters supporting the aerospace industry, where he earned a reputation for always being the one to talk to about anything and everything. Barry always had a kind word and wise advice for all who came to him. From help with car troubles and technical issues to discussions of philosophy and faith, Barry always knew what to say and how to help. It was his profound desire and capacity to help his family, friends, and neighbors that made him so universally adored. He had the love of his wife of 39 years, with whom he had just renewed vows, his daughter, Leyla, and his grandchildren. Barry had many jobs and roles in his life that he found meaning in, but in the last 2 years, he fell into his favorite role of all—Poppy. The loss of Barry will leave a tremendous void in the lives and hearts of all he knew, but as a man of lifelong faith, his loved ones can take comfort in knowing he will spend eternity with our loving God. He is preceded in death by his grandparents and his father, Anthony Richard Battista. He is survived by his wife, Gilda Leticia Ham-Battista; daughter, Leyla Marie Battista-Channell; son-in-law, Alexander Channell; grandchildren, Hazel and Parker Channell; mother, Joan Robinson; stepmother, Doris Battista; and siblings, Lara Brown, Daniel Battista, and Matthew Battista. He has been a parishioner of St. Joseph's Catholic Church for 30 years, where he faithfully served his church community as an RCIA leader for over 10 years.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105.