Dorothea Barbara Rugani

Barbara Rugani was born in Sutton Coldfield, England on September 7, 1923 to Ralph and Dorothy Hale, joining her brother, Douglas. Barbara spent her youth in a loving, nurturing family, excelling in swimming, sports, and helping her father and grandfather run a wholesale food business.

Her life was suddenly changed in 1939 with the onslaught of World War II. Barbara lived through the Battle of Britain, surviving several bombings and fires, losing friends and neighbors, and working on the home front to help supply the British war effort. In 1944, Barbara met a dashing American lieutenant, Raymond Rugani. This began a lifelong, loving relationship. She married Ray in 1947 in England and relocated to America as one of the over 4500 other English war brides.

Settling in America and adjusting to her new life, Barbara spent the next 51 years as a strong military spouse. She supported and nurtured Raymond’s long military career and it’s many moves throughout Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, North Carolina, and New Jersey. Barbara and Ray finally settled down in Virginia to enjoy retirement until Ray’s passing in 1998.

Barbara continued her life in Colonial Heights, enjoying golf and visiting with her many military and civilian friends accumulated from a lifetime of travel.

Barbara is survived by her sons, Michael (Lori), Richard (Beverly); daughter, Debbie (Buddy Campbell); grandchildren, Raymond, Jenna, Carly; and great-grandchildren, Emmitt and Motley.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Inurnment will be held in Arlington Nation Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.