Claire Shapiro Rosenblatt Barton died Jan. 18, 2018, in Jacksonville, Florida. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, she was born in Miami, Florida, graduated from Florida State University, was a resident of Ponte Vedra Beach since 1985 and was the co-founder and co-owner of Mercury Luggage Manufacturing Co. until its sale in 1990. She was a member of the Women’s Board of Memorial Hospital, served as president and chaired two of the hospital’s Beacon Balls.
Claire was one of the co-founders of Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital and Centers, served on the Foundation Board, and was a long-time supporter and fundraiser for Brooks. She also was a life member of the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club and was an avid duplicate bridge player. Former memberships also include Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs, the Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra, Epping Forest Yacht Club and the University Club. She and her husband, Col. Charles J. Rosenblatt, had a daughter named Carol and were married until his death in 1990. She married Ralph Barton in 1996, and they shared ten years together until his death in 2006.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Etta Shapiro; sister, Marian Siegel (Bernie); daughter, Carol Barber (Steve); great-grandson, Sean Rogers; and niece, Leslie Austin. She is survived by her sister, Corrine Belford (Mike); granddaughter, Christy Rogers (Chad); grandson, Charles Barber (Vilma); great-grandchildren, Natalie Barber, Josh Rogers, Emily Barber, Olivia Barber and Sofia Barber; and her nieces, Laine Silverfield (Gary), Pam Belford, Terri Belford and Wendy Lerer.
Per Claire’s request, there will be no services. Please visit the online tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com. Services under the direction and care of Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home.
