Barbara ‘Babs’ Cummins-Coppes

Barbara “Babs” Cummins-Coppes, of Warsaw, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
She was born April 17, 1932, in Indianapolis, to Max Allen and Beryle Clark Blackburn and grew up with her older brother, Bill.
Babs was married to Jim Cummins, of Warsaw, for nearly 40 years, and he survives. Together they raised six children: Cathy Wheeler (Steve), of Crossville, Tenn.; Cheri Bryan (Jeff), of South Whitley; Craig Cummins (Ann), of Westminster, S.C.; Chris Cummins (Beth), Clark Cummins (Amy) and Cindy Cummins, all of Warsaw. She later married Frank Coppes, sharing 11 years together before his death in 2004. Babs was blessed with 23 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Babs grew up in Indianapolis and proudly attended Shortridge High School, graduating in 1950. She was actively involved in the Euvola Club, choir, prom committee, Junior Vaudeville and Panhellenic groups, and was a Bluebelle candidate her senior year. She also enjoyed ballet, tap and jazz, with tap as her favorite.
She attended Indiana University, where she and several of her closest friends pledged Kappa Alpha Theta, forming deep friendships that remained strong throughout her life. Babs was a devoted member of Kappa Alpha Theta for 75 years! She graduated from IU in three and a half years with a degree in elementary education and married Jim Cummins on Dec. 19, 1953. During their time at Indiana University, Babs shared her beautiful soprano voice while Jim accompanied her on piano at various campus parties.
Babs began her teaching career as a third-grade teacher in Martinsville, before moving to Itazuke Air Force Base in Nagoya, Japan, where Jim was stationed in the United States Air Force. They welcomed their daughter, Cathy while in Japan. Upon returning to the U.S, they settled in Indy, where Babs dedicated herself as a stay-at-home mother. In 1965, the family moved to Warsaw, where Babs devoted herself to raising their six children. Babs and Jim remained proudly connected to their IU roots, enjoying football games, attending Theta and Fiji reunions and continuing to support the university they both loved.
Babs’ strong faith and vibrant personality were reflected in her deep involvement in the Warsaw community. She was a longtime member of Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church, singing in the choir until age 91; an active Tri Kappa member for over 50 years, participating in Follies and supporting its mission of charity, culture and education; and a member of Mother’s Study Club, AAUW, and numerous Bible studies, including her cherished “Steel Magnolias.” She also served on the board of the Kosciusko County Classic Arts Program and performed in its concerts, and enjoyed ballroom dancing and singing with the barbershop quartet, “The Humdingers.”
Babs volunteered as a “Pink Lady” at Kosciusko Community Hospital and had a special love for children, dedicating time at the Cardinal Center Children’s Home working with children with disabilities. She then returned to college attending Ball State University to earn her master’s degree in education and continued her passion for teaching as a substitute teacher for Warsaw Community Schools until the age of 84.
Babs loved opening her home and hosting gatherings, from Spring Hill Acres on Pike Lake to her homes on Winona and Center Lake. An exceptional cook, her meals — especially her famous chocolate mousse pie — were always eagerly enjoyed. She cherished lake life, from sunrises and boat rides to family gatherings, and treasured time spent at Lake Wawasee with her brother Bill and his wife, Gloria, where her children enjoyed time with their cousins.
“Nana,” as she was lovingly called, was a devoted presence in her grandchildren’s lives, rarely missing their games, performances and milestones. She loved movies, music and continuing to learn and celebrate life with her family. She enjoyed wildlife from her window, daily ice cream, listening to music, Hallmark movies, classic musicals, “The Young and the Restless” and walks with her beloved dog, Buddy, as well as attending shows at the Wagon Wheel Theater and singing in church and community choir.
One of Babs’ most cherished memories was a three-generational trip to Europe with her daughter, Cheri, and granddaughter, Courtney. She also enjoyed many adventures with Jim, including living in Japan; traveling to Yellowstone National Park; visiting Hawaii, Seattle and Santo Domingo; taking two Caribbean cruises; and making many memorable trips to Florida — with six children in tow — to visit her parents in Pompano Beach. She also traveled with Frank to Texas to visit her cousin, MJ, and explored Graceland in Tennessee and Branson, Mo.
Another treasured experience was a trip to Washington, D.C., for Shortridge High School’s Class of 1950 reunion, graciously hosted by her classmate and friend, Senator Dick Lugar. The visit included a private, after-hours tour of the Senate floor, along with time spent exploring many of the city’s landmarks, restaurants and monuments.
Babs was dearly loved by family and friends and never met a stranger. With a warm smile and energetic spirit, she found joy in connecting with others. Family remained her greatest treasure, and she cherished every moment as a proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Arrangements are entrusted to Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2000 Sheridan St., Warsaw. A Life Celebration for Babs’ will be held Friday, April 3 at Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 210 S. High St., Warsaw, IN 46580, with visitation at 11 a.m. to noon with the service starting at noon. Memorial contributions may be made to Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 210 S. High St., Warsaw, IN 46580; or to the Animal Welfare League, 1048 S. 225 E. Pierceton, IN 46562.
To leave a condolence, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com.