Barbara Goss

Barbara Goss, 95, died on June 27, 2023 at her home in Clearwater, Florida. Barbara Jean Bush was born in Jamestown, New York on December 15, 1927 and graduated from Jamestown High School in 1945. Barbara married Jack Goss in 1948. Their 70-year marriage took them from New York, to Texas, Tennessee, and then to several overseas postings in Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and Japan while Jack worked for General Electric. While in Japan, Barbara raised four children, was an active member of the English-speaking community, and developed a lifelong passion for the Japanese Ikebana art of flower arranging.

In 1963, the family relocated to the United States, ultimately settling in Clearwater in 1965. In 1968, Barbara and Jack purchased John’s Pass Marina in Treasure Island, Florida, which Barbara operated until 1999. Barbara was a well-known figure in the local marine industry and served as President of the Florida Marine Industry Association, the Pinellas Marine Industry Association, and the St. Pete Sales and Marketing Executives group.

After retiring, Barbara began a busy life of traveling and volunteer service through several organizations. She was a counselor with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) for over 10 years. She served on the Board of Directors of the Florida Botanical Garden Foundation Board, and in this role was instrumental in developing the entertainment feature of the annual Holiday Lights Festival. Barbara spent much of the year in planning this event, and was recognized by Pinellas County as a Partner in Public Service for her efforts.

Barbara was an accomplished teacher in the Ikebana Sogetsu School and taught many students from beginner to advanced. She participated in many demonstrations and exhibitions over the years, including Art in Bloom at the St. Pete Museum of Fine Arts, and the Ikebana International Chapter 65 Annual Exhibitions. In addition, Barbara held many leadership positions in the Ikebana Chapter, including two terms as President and many years of service on committees and the Board of Directors.

Barbara had many interests and hobbies, including travel, genealogy, sewing, sailing, and gardening. She loved to entertain and was a wonderful hostess and cook. She also had a deep interest in physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. She studied Therapeutic Touch for many years and practiced Tai Chi in her later years, among other disciplines. She was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church and the Spiritual Center Church in Clearwater.

Barbara is survived by her children Jacquelyn O’Connor, Clearwater, FL; Margaret Goss, Arlington, VA; Catherine Goss (Joe Willmore), Annandale, VA; and James Goss (Kelly), Largo, FL. Grandchildren Michael O’Connor (Karen), Clearwater, FL; Kevin Goss, Largo, FL; David Willmore, New Britain, CT; Maia Goss, Norfolk, VA; and Nina Goss, Falls Church, VA. Barbara is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Jack Goss, in February 2019; sister Mary Elizabeth Casselman, brother Warren Bush, and brother and sister-in-law Bill Greene and Kathleen Greene.

A Celebration of Barbara’s Life is planned for 12:30 PM Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Serenity Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Ikebana International Chapter 65 care of M. Zhu, 5140 Pinnacle Dr. Oldsmar FL 34677.