Barbara Diane Brigode, 75, passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2024 in Bradenton, Florida. Barbara was born October 18, 1948 in Oneonta, New York to Dr. Harry and Anita Kurtz and was the second of four siblings.
Barbara attended elementary school in Oneonta and graduated from Oneonta High School. She received her undergraduate degree from State University of New York at Geneseo and her master's degree in speech therapy at Penn State University. Upon graduation she worked as a speech therapist in a rehabilitation facility in Endicott, New York.
Barbara married Harold Brigode at St. Patrick's Church in Owego, New York in October of 1979. They enjoyed their lives in both New York and Florida, before permanently residing in Bradenton, Florida. Harold Brigode preceded Barbara in death April 28, 2009.
Barbara married James Cook at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church in Bradenton, Florida October 9, 2011. Barbara and James later became members of Risen Savior Lutheran Church in Bradenton, Florida.
After a fulfilling career as a speech therapist, Barbara retired from her position at Freedom Elementary in Bradenton, Florida, in 2012. Throughout her career Barbara enriched many lives and experienced much joy in working with her patients and students. She enjoyed singing in various choirs, playing the organ, quilting, playing golf and traveling extensively in her motorhomes over the years.
Left to cherish Barbara's memory are her loving husband, James Cook, her brother Terry (Glenda) Kurtz, sister Penny Kurtz, brother Randall Kurtz. Through her marriage with Harold, three step children, Sharon (William) Carmine, Linda Bowgren, Thomas (Cheryl) Brigode and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her marriage to James, three stepchildren, James Cook, Jodi Berch, her devoted and loving caregiver, and Jennifer (Kevin) Williams, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Friends and family are invited to a Christian Memorial at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, located at 14605 59th Ave E, Bradenton, Florida 34211 on August 8th, 2024 at 1pm.
