Xanthe (Za) Barton (DA 2020-25) died on November 12th, 2025, at the age of 18 from complications following a pulmonary embolism. She leaves behind her parents, Jonathan (C1 1981-86) and Amanda; her older siblings Helena (MM 2015-20), Halcyon (MM 2018-23), and Theodore (C1 2017-22); and her twin sister, Hero. I first met Xanthe just after her 15th birthday and got to know her well: both as Lena’s sister, and through my mentorship of her writing. Xanthe’s poetry was extraordinary, and her extensive work revealed her curiosity about the world and the things she held dear. This talent was fuelled by the values and character traits that made her, as an individual, quite so special.
Xanthe’s compassion was at the centre of who she was. She strove to include everyone and engaged in all her conversations with openness and generosity, often responding to the needs of those around her before they even arose. Memorably, this once led to a Westonbirt School houseparent writing in to Louise Moelwyn-Hughes, highlighting Xanthe’s initiative in obtaining both water and ice chips for their lacrosse goalkeeper during a particularly hot day. Xanthe was uniquely perceptive to the subtleties of human interaction, and this emotional maturity, in combination with her creativity, led Dancy HM Kay Kiggell to create a special role for her in house: ‘Head of Vibes’, which resulted in a totally redecorated common space!
Compassion, generosity, and sensitivity, however, should not be mistaken for passivity. Xanthe was a fierce intellect who, at the age of 18, was beginning to tease out her place in the world. She loved History of Art and Classics – shortlisted for the classical poetry prize in 2023– appreciated a broad spectrum of literature: and yet, during the spirited debates characteristic of a Foreman-Barton supper table, was honest in her understanding of a topic or firmness of her view. Xanthe was quick to question what she didn’t know and to incorporate new perspectives into her own. Yet she was also unafraid to express what she felt, why she felt it and, when needed, what she believed could help.
The months after Xanthe’s death have underlined the importance of the ‘village’: loved ones who show up consistently, and who sacrifice their convenience for community. Our village has supported us in the same way Xanthe supported hers: with patience, love, and generosity of spirit. We all miss her deeply.
Anna Pembroke (MO 2013-18)
