Barbara Elizabeth Portner

Barbara Elizabeth Portner, age 89, of Charleston, SC, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on August 13, 2025.

Born in the Bronx, NY, on September 29, 1935, to Betty and Anton Portner, Barbara grew up in New York alongside her beloved older brother, Richard. She later married and settled in Pompton Lakes, NJ, where she raised her daughters Yvonne and Maria.

A devoted mother and provider, Barbara worked long hours to ensure her daughters had a stable and loving home. She instilled in them the values of hard work and the importance of enjoying life’s moments. Most of her career was spent at Alloy & Stainless, and after many years of dedication, she retired in 1997 and relocated to Charleston, SC. Before her illness in October 2022, Barbara led an active life. She loved walking her dog, Emma, and spending time at the gym. Her greatest joy came from her granddaughters — Lucy, Marisa, and Carleigh. She cherished their visits, treasured their time together during holidays, and took immense pride in each of their accomplishments.

Barbara is survived by her brother, Richard Portner of Charleston, SC; her daughters, Yvonne Schaffer and husband Chuck of Charleston, SC, Maria Papier and husband Ken of Southern Shores, NC, and her granddaughters, Lucille Gentry of Raleigh, NC, Marisa Gentry of Cullowhee, NC, and Carleigh Gentry of Chapel Hill, NC. She was predeceased by her parents Betty and Anton Portner, her son-in-law Carl Gentry Jr., and her sister-in-law Connie Portner. 

A private service will be held at a later date, and Barbara will be laid to rest alongside her parents in New York.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation - West Ashley, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, 843-722-8371.