Barbara-Ann Saxton (née Derr)

Barbara-Ann Saxton, lovingly known as “Mom,” “Mom-Mom,” and to so many others simply as family, passed away peacefully at home in Southampton, Pennsylvania, on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her children and grandchildren. She was born on August 21, 1963, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Barbara née Ashcroft and William Derr; her brothers, William and Joseph Derr; her beloved daughter, Barbara; and her husband, Stephen. She is survived by her son, Robert Saxton (Kristen), and her daughter, Stephanie Martin (Tommy). She was the proud and devoted grandmother to Bobby, Stephen, Lucas, and Landon, who were the center of her world and the reason she fought so hard for so long.

Barbara was not just a mother and grandmother to her own children and grandchildren—she was that to many. Her home, her heart, and her arms were always open. She welcomed friends, neighbors, and anyone who needed love or support as if they were her own. She had a rare gift of making people feel seen, cared for, and valued, and she never hesitated to put others before herself.

She retired from the Philadelphia School District in 2018 after years of dedicated service. Even after retirement, her role as a caretaker never ended. She continued to pour her energy, strength, and love into her family, always pushing through her own battles so she could be present for the moments that mattered most—watching her grandchildren grow, laugh, and live.

Barbara faced cancer with incredible strength and determination. Even on her hardest days, she remained focused on her family. Her resilience was not quiet—it was fierce, and it came from a deep love for the people she refused to give up on.

She took great pride in her Native American heritage, which was an important part of her identity and something she held close to her heart throughout her life. She also had a love for Snoopy, a small joy that brought her comfort and smiles even during difficult times.
To know Barbara was to be loved by her. She was honest, protective, and unwaveringly loyal. She would tell you the truth whether it was easy to hear or not, because she wanted the best for the people she loved. She fought for her children, supported her grandchildren, and extended that same fierce love to anyone lucky enough to be part of her life.

Her passing leaves a deep void not only in her immediate family, but also among her extended family, friends, and the Hackett School community, where her kindness and presence were deeply felt. Barbara’s legacy is not only in the life she lived, but in the way she made others feel—safe, loved, and important. Her love lives on in her children, her grandchildren, and everyone whose life she touched. Though she is no longer here in body, her voice, her love, and her strength will continue to guide her family every day.

She will be forever loved, forever missed, and always remembered.

Please join the Saxton family on Friday, June 19, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Delaware Valley Cremation Center, 7350 State Road, Philadelphia, PA 19136, for a gathering of remembrance in honoring and celebrating Barbara-Ann's life. A service for her will begin at 7:00 pm, followed by time for refreshments and food, until 9:00pm. Barbara-Ann’s family will be accessible to receive the loving comfort of your condolences, remembrance, and support throughout the evening.