Barbara Mayhew-Belatski, Longtime Vermont Social Worker, Dies at 71

Remembered for her tenacious spirit, compassionate nature, and lifelong dedication to community mental health care.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Barbara Jean Mayhew-Belatski, a licensed clinical social worker who devoted nearly four decades to serving her community at the Howard Center in Vermont, passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 71 due to a sudden heart attack. Known for her adventurous spirit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to helping others, Barbara left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Why it matters

Barbara's story highlights the vital role that compassionate, community-focused social workers play in supporting mental health and wellbeing, especially in smaller Vermont communities. Her passing is a loss felt deeply by her colleagues, clients, and the broader network of caregivers and advocates she championed throughout her career.

The details

Born in 1954 in Windsor, Vermont, Barbara grew up exploring the outdoors and immersing herself in books, developing a lifelong love of nature and learning. After graduating from Woodstock Union High School in 1973, she earned her bachelor's degree in social work from Trinity College in 1983 and a master's degree from Adelphi University in 1984. Barbara dedicated the next 38 years of her life to working as a licensed clinical social worker at the Howard Center, where she was known for her gentle, supportive, and unwavering advocacy on behalf of her clients and community.

  • Barbara Mayhew-Belatski was born on September 23, 1954 in Windsor, Vermont.
  • She graduated from Woodstock Union High School in 1973.
  • Barbara earned her bachelor's degree in social work from Trinity College in 1983.
  • She completed her master's degree from Adelphi University in 1984.
  • Barbara passed away on January 26, 2026 in Burlington, Vermont at the age of 71.

The players

Barbara Mayhew-Belatski

A licensed clinical social worker who devoted nearly four decades of her life to serving her community at the Howard Center in Vermont, known for her adventurous spirit, warmth, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Eva Belatski

Barbara's daughter, who was her greatest joy in life.

Howard Center

The community mental health organization where Barbara worked as a licensed clinical social worker for approximately 38 years.

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What’s next

A memorial service for Barbara Mayhew-Belatski will be held on February 7, 2026 at the Cabot Funeral Home from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., followed by a gathering at the Norman Williams Public Library from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. An online viewing of the service will also be made available.

The takeaway

Barbara Mayhew-Belatski's life and legacy serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that compassionate, community-focused social workers can have in supporting mental health and wellbeing, especially in smaller Vermont communities. Her unwavering dedication to her clients and her ability to connect with people on a deep level left an indelible mark on all who knew her.