Barbara Poole Altonji

Barbara Joan Poole Altonji, a beacon of faith and selflessness, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at the age of 93. She was surrounded by the love and comfort of her family in Dothan, Alabama. Barbara's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to the well-being of family, of children and to the Catholic Church.

Barbara's memory will be cherished by her loving children, Joseph (Kathleen) Altonji, Andrew (Stormy) Altonji, Cheryl (Philip) Green and Mark (Cathy) Altonji; her adored grandchildren, Aaron (Brandy) Altonji, Elizabeth (Adam) Berry, the late Dr. Kathryn Altonji (Jonathan Wolleben), Rev. Joshua Altonji, Christina (Daniel) Hicks, Dr. Samuel (Caroline Fry) Altonji, Major Michael (Elizabeth) Altonji, Casey Green, Hailey Altonji, Christopher (Elizabeth Ahler) Altonji, Hannah Altonji, Sarah Altonji and her eight treasured great- grandchildren, who brought her immense joy in her later years. She also leaves behind her cherished sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Poole (the late Francis Kenneth Poole). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Joseph A. Altonji, parents James and Josephine Poole; her brothers Francis Kenneth Poole and James Poole and her granddaughter Dr. Kathryn Altonji.

Barbara grew up in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, NY. She met and fell in love with Joseph Altonji, a man born and raised two streets over that hung-out in the same social groups (CYO- Catholic Youth Organization). She attended Fordham University and graduated with a degree in education. Her professional life centered on children: teaching English and Math, coaching youth sports and teaching Sunday School (CCD) in each of the many states to which their life-journey took them. The family arrived in Scottsboro, AL in the summer of 1973, where she was given the opportunity to make a profound impact on Alabama’s statewide child development programs. She was instrumental in establishing the Jackson County Childhood Development Center in Scottsboro, Alabama, where she served as the Director for 29 years. Her work left an indelible mark on the community, touching the lives of countless families.

Barbara's love for children extended beyond her professional efforts. Always ready to help a child in need, she took them into her care when necessary. Her dedication to her faith was equally strong. She was a devoted member of St. Jude Catholic Church in Scottsboro for over forty years, serving in roles of teacher and Director of Religious Education, and on the board and various committees.

In 2021 Barbara moved to Dothan, AL to live and learn with her loving daughter’s family. She continued reading books ravenously and praying the Rosary faithfully. She also became a devoted Atlanta Braves fan!

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home in Midland City, AL from 5-6pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at St. Jude Catholic Church, 17205 Alabama Hwy. 35, Scottsboro, AL (35768). The Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Joshua Altonji, with Fr. Thomas Woods (pastor) concelebrating. The family will receive friends from 10am-11am in the church. A breakfast reception will be given in the church hall beginning at 9:45am. Barbara will be laid to rest in Pinehaven Memorial Gardens, Hollywood, AL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Catholic Church or to the Dr. Katy Altonji Memorial Fund at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago at www.sralab.org/give-now.