Natalie Rand McFadden

February 3, 1937 - December 15, 2013

Born on February 3, 1937 in Winchester Massachusetts, she passed away peacefully on December 15, 2013 at her home in Santa Barbara. Being loved by Natalie McFadden was to bear witness to something both powerful and extraordinary. Her gentle nature and boundless good cheer belied a fierce commitment to the happiness and well being of her husband, her five sons, their families, her relatives and her wide circle of friends. Natalie contributed her talents to many local charities, including CALM, the Assistance League and Laguna Cottages senior housing. She approached volunteer work with a seriousness and commitment that often landed her in leadership roles. Natalie pursued this calling with a quiet, dogged determination, fueled by the knowledge that a very real difference was being made in the lives of many in her beloved Santa Barbara community. Natalie's passion for flowers and horticulture led to national recognition by the Garden Club of America where she won accolades and admiration for her award-winning flower arrangements and her skillful judging abilities. Eventually rising to serve a term as President of the Santa Barbara chapter, Natalie's involvement was a source of tremendous pride, allowing her to cultivate her love and passion for both flowers and friendships. Our hearts ache with the burden of losing such a gentle, selfless and singularly remarkable soul. Yet we find solace in the knowledge that Natalie's love and compassion will forever live in the countless hearts and lives she bestowed with her grace. The gift she left us will continue to inform and enrich our lives: Be kind, be compassionate, love without limits and when your time here is done leave behind a better and more beautiful community and world. Natalie McFadden is survived by her husband Dr. Robert Bruce, her sons Robert Bruce II, John Kendrick, Nathaniel Philip, and Dr. James David; her brother Kendrick Rand; daughters-in-law Sarah Jones McFadden and Leslie McFadden; grandchildren Lindsey McFadden, Chase McFadden, Harrison McFadden and Lauren McFadden. Natalie was pre-deceased by her parents Nathaniel and Dorothy Rand, and her oldest son Douglas Rand. A memorial in Natalie's honor will be held at the Music Academy of The West to begin at 1 pm on Sunday, December 22nd.