Gig Barton

Gig Barton passed away peacefully, surrounded by his closest family, on November 11, 2025 after a brave battle with cancer. Born August 27, 1953, Gig grew up in Southborough, MA and was a graduate of Governor Dummer Academy and Boston University, which prepared him for a highly successful career in advertising sales in New York City. Gig approached his life, his work, and his final challenge with dignity, tenacity, and humility.

Gig and his wife Holly lived in New York City for 40 years, where they raised their two children and thrived on the city’s energy and the social life that they built there together. While busy weekdays were spent in the buzz of the city, Gig found peace and purpose in Claverack, NY, at the farmhouse that he and Holly bought together the year they were married. The moment that Gig saw the house, with its wide porch and big red barn, he knew that it would serve as a sanctuary for himself, his family, and his friends. There, Gig was in his element: restoring the house room by room, transforming the acres that surrounded it and riding his tractor through the fields.

One of his favorite projects was Trumbull Farms, a lavender field that he and Holly planted and cultivated together. He proudly shared his lavender bounty with friends, family, neighbors, and the nurses who cared for him. Gig never shied away from any challenge and took great pride in always doing the work himself; an apt metaphor for the steadfast way he approached life.

Just as Gig had imagined, the country house offered a gathering place for friends and family with an open door and “come as you are” policy. Years later, this extended to Nahant where Gig and Holly settled in retirement. Gig cherished the sea-side beauty and warm community that surrounded him there. Gig was a man who effortlessly brought people together with his gregarious, sociable, and loyal nature. His legacy lives in the deep relationships that he formed throughout his life; from his friends of over 70 years to his 4 young grandchildren. Gig was quick to help, always made time for others, and delighted in the success of those around him. Gig had an incredibly optimistic outlook on life. His sense of humor and positive attitude were infectious and helped support those around him until his last breath.

Gig is survived by his wife of 40 years, Holly Barton, and his daughter and son and their spouses: Spencer and Shane Whipkey; George and Tory Barton; and his four beloved grandchildren: Finley and Sutton Whipkey; and Lucy and Maggie Barton. He is also survived by his sisters Pat Barton and Bizzy Conklin, and his brother, Jeff Barton. He is predeceased by his parents: Charles and Mary Barton, and his two brothers: Tim Barton and Charles Barton.

All are warmly invited to a remembrance of Gig’s life on November 22, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 27 Main Street, Southborough, MA. Reception and celebration to follow at 12:00 PM at the Southborough Community Center, 28 Main Street, Southborough, MA.

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