News Summary
Fred ‘Ted’ Howard Barrows III, a celebrated jewelry designer and former U.S. Navy Lieutenant, has passed away at the age of 92. His life spanned creativity, military service, and a loving family. Born in Rhode Island, he earned recognition both in the Navy and the jewelry industry, creating intricate collectible designs. He leaves behind a legacy of artistry and cherished memories with his family, along with a devoted wife of over 35 years. A memorial service will be held in Bristol following his passing.
Southern Pines, NC – Renowned jewelry designer and former U.S. Navy Lieutenant Fred “Ted” Howard Barrows III passed away on September 1, 2025, at the age of 92. His death marks the end of a distinguished life that intertwined creativity, service, and family.
Born on June 1, 1933, in Providence, Rhode Island, Ted was the son of Fred and Martha Barrows. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Jane. Ted’s educational journey began at the Governor Dummer Academy in Byfield, Massachusetts, where he graduated in 1951. He continued his studies at Brown University, where he was also a member of the Class of 1955 and participated in the ROTC program.
Following his graduation, Ted proudly served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy aboard the USS Wadleigh during the Suez Canal Crisis. His naval service had a lasting impact on him, particularly during annual Fourth of July events when he would enjoy visits from naval ships. He welcomed visiting crew members to his home and relished the experience of sailing a destroyer into Newport.
After concluding his military service, Ted transitioned to the jewelry industry. He managed Wells, a jewelry manufacturer located in Attleboro, Massachusetts, where his exceptional skills as a designer came to the forefront. He became well-regarded for his intricate silver bracelet charms featuring movable parts, creating detailed miniatures of retro cars, telephones, lighthouses, pianos, and books, which have become highly collectible over the years.
Ted shared a loving marriage with Jacqueline for over 35 years. Together, they restored the historic Seven Oaks estate in Bristol and cherished many adventures abroad. They enjoyed playing golf, sailing on Narragansett Bay, and celebrating milestones with friends from Brown University.
Ted is survived by his beloved wife Jacqueline, their children Gail (Clive), Tad, Jeb, and Reginald (Donna), as well as his niece Paula (Andrew). He was a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather, leaving behind grandchildren Alexandra (Andrew), Nick, Taylor (Becca), Peter (Sarah), and Josie, along with six great-grandchildren.
The family will hold visitation at Sansone Funeral Home in Bristol on September 9, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. A memorial service will follow at 10:30 AM at the funeral home. Ted will be laid to rest with military honors at North Burial Ground on Hope Street in Bristol.
Online condolences, tributes, and obituary details can be found at www.sansonefuneralhome.com.
Ted Barrows’ life was marked by creativity, commitment to service, and a loving family. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate through his intricate jewelry designs and the cherished memories he created with those he loved.
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- Tribute Archive: Fred “Ted” Howard Barrows III
- Wikipedia: Fred Barrows
- Legacy: Ruth Patterson
- Google Search: Fred Barrows obituary
- Sandhills Sentinel: Martin Eldrice McCall
- Google Scholar: Fred Howard Barrows
- Cleveland Obits: Frances Daley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fred Barrows
- Trib Today: Theodore R. Ray
- Google News: obituaries North Carolina
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