Barry Scott Gelfand, 78, of Punta Gorda, Florida died Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Lee Memorial Hospital, Fort Myers, Florida.

Barry was born February 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois to the late Jerome and Dorothy (Chokler) Gelfand. He and his wife, Joyce, moved to Punta Gorda in 2007 from Skokie, Illinois. He was a retired pharmacist and a member of Temple Shalom. Survived by his loving family; his wife, Joyce M. Gelfand of Punta Gorda; a son, Aaron (Amy) Gelfand of Round Rock, TX; two daughters, Robyn Gelfand-Wiseman of Cooper City, FL and Diana Gelfand of Davie, FL; a bonus wife and devoted sister in law, Susan Cohen; and bonus daughter, Hannah Clare; a brother, Alan (Michal) Gelfand of Boynton Beach, FL; and six grandchildren

With his family and friends, he created many beautiful memories. His honesty, love, and humor resulted in adoring, fantastic children. He simply enjoyed life. Barry was always proud of his marriage of (almost) 55 years to Joyce, short of the 120 years they were looking forward to.

A devoted husband,  father, and grandfather,  beloved brother and uncle, cousin and friend, Barry was an avid Disney and cruise fan. He was known for his humor and goodness. 

As an entrepreneur and registered pharmacist, he had a 24-hour drugstore in Skokie, Illinois, for many years. Barry also built up a suntan distributorship with his brother Alan, regaling us with many funny stories.

A volunteer in the Illinois community for many years,  Barry ran the Skokie Youth Girls’ softball teams. One favorite memory was him verifying that the youngest teams’ scoreboard always showed a tied game as the final score. He was also president of his HOA for many years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry, and “Dot” Gelfand, older brother Warren, niece Mandy Gelfand, and his favorite in-laws, “Hank” and Anne Cohen.

Barry‘s favorite holiday was Halloween. He prepared all year long, resulting in massive decorations for his yard, as well as the yards of his children and neighbors. His favorite times were spent with his children, and grandchildren, Lucca, Rocco, Zane, Harlyn, Torre, and Mateo, and many family and friends. His unexpected passing has devastated his family.

In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make donations to Temple Shalom in Port Charlotte, FL, or Altruistic Dog Rescue in Texas.

Memorial services celebrating Barry’s life will be held Tuesday 3:00 PM March 31, 2026, at Temple Shalom, 23190 Utica St., Port Charlotte, FL 33980.

Friends may visit online www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family. Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Punta Gorda Chapel.