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Barbara C. Bunting, a beloved mother, grammie, sister, aunt, and friend, departed this world on April 16, 2025, at the age of 67 in Milford, Delaware, surrounded by her adoring family and her cherished dog, Gypsy. Born on March 24, 1958 to Paul and Betty Cagle, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Barbara was a spark of joy and laughter from her early days through her vibrant life.
A proud graduate of Lake Forest High School's class of 1976, Barbara embarked on a fulfilling career journey that began at Baltimore Aircoil, where she met the love of her life, Bruce Bunting. Their love story blossomed into a beautiful partnership, full of shared laughter and countless adventures.
After working at L.D. Caulk, Barbara followed her passion for cooking, which was first discovered years before while working as a cook at her sister’s daycare. For 15 delightful years, she brought happiness and satisfaction to many as a caterer at Bayhealth Hospital. Her culinary skills were second to none, and she took great joy in creating new recipes for family and friends to enjoy.
Throughout her career, Barbara shone brightly, earning accolades such as Employee of the Quarter, Employee of the Year, and the Spirit of Planetree Award, all testaments to her hard work and dedication. But it was her ability to connect with others that made her truly special. Barbara's home was a haven, welcoming friends and family alike, and her thoughtful nature ensured that everyone felt cared for and loved.
Beyond her career, Barbara’s hobbies included camping at her favorite getaways, like Virginia Landing and Trap Pond State Park, and indulging her love of music – often filling her home with melodies from her extensive record collection. Her kitchen was often bustling with activity, laughter, and, of course, the tantalizing aromas of her latest culinary creations. Her warm heart and vibrant nature transformed her house into a welcoming home for many over the years.
Those who knew Barbara would agree that she was a beacon of positivity, always wearing a smile that could brighten even the gloomiest day. With an ornery sense of humor and a spirit of kindness, Barbara was ready to "tell it like it was" when needed and stood firm as an advocate for her beliefs. The greatest joys of her life were derived from her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her world.
Barbara is lovingly survived by her daughter, Cathy Schreiber (Yale); her sons, Eric and Chris Bunting; her sisters, Judy Gaudino (Tony) and Gay Davis; her brothers, Randy Cagle (Kathy) and Donny Cagle; her granddaughter, Cassandra Schreiber; and her grandson, Nicholas Schreiber, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her devoted husband and best friend, Bruce Bunting; her father, Paul Cagle; her mother, Betty Cagle; and her brother, Jerry Cagle.
Barbara's unwavering spirit and warm heart will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing her. She touched lives in her own unique way, and while she may have left behind her loved ones with sadness, she carried with her the assurance that she would be reunited with those she cherished in Heaven.
A vibrant soul now at peace, Barbara's legacy of love and laughter will forever resonate in the hearts of the many who were fortunate enough to call her family and friend.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 Front Street, Milford, DE at 12:30pm. A visitation will take place starting at 11:00am. Interment will immediately follow at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington, DE.
