Barbara Jean Copp

Barbara Jean Copp age 85, passed away peacefully at her residence on Monday, March 25, 2024.

Born on December 5, 1938 in Vincennes, Indiana (at 8 pounds), the first child of Hayward and Marie Gregory of Lawrenceville, Illinois.

Barbara spent her childhood years in Lawrenceville, IL. She graduated from Lawrenceville High School in 1956 where she met her future husband, Richard E. Copp. They were married on August 19th of that same year in Lawrenceville, and several years later moved permanently to Northwest Indiana for Richard’s work, where she resided until her death. 

Raising three children, Barbara was primarily a homemaker, (aka... superhero back in those days), most of her life. A proud member of the Griffith United Methodist Church where she attended services there with her children (in the balcony) most weekends until her health deteriorated. Her soul has good direction because of her steadfast faith!

As the children got older, Barbara (not “she” because mom hated to be referenced that way), worked for years at the Sears catalog store a short distance from their home to supplement their income.

Barbara enjoyed Bowling (in her younger years), Bunco, card playing, gatherings with friends and family, and loved visiting back down (home) in Lawrenceville as much as possible and that occasional glass of wine. Most of all, Barbara enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, always available to create cherished memories with the little ones whenever needed! Among other things, Barbara will be remembered for greeting you with a smile every single time, no matter how bad her day was going or how many things were on her plate (it was generally a lot). Not one to complain, it just wasn’t in her nature, you played the cards you were dealt!

For her friends and neighbors, there was always an open door willing to listen and talk about life’s lessons over that cup of coffee. You won’t find a better listener than her!

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Richard; her son, Rick (Anne) Copp; daughter, Patty (Ken) Croft; daughter-in-law, Stefanie Copp; grandchildren, Brittany (Adam) Brewer, Corey Copp, Breanne (Payton) Brezinski, Courtney (Lou) Grounds, Kristen (Alex) Gorman & Gregory Copp; great-grandchildren, Brody, Lydia & Stella Brewer, Adalynn & Cal Grounds & Ruby Brezinski, brothers-in-law, Larry Copp & Larry Davis and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceded in death by her parents, Hayward and Marie Gregory; her loving sister, Linda Davis, beloved son, Michael Copp and sister-in-law, Merry (Kathy) Copp. 

Barbara was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend and will be greatly missed by all whose lives she has touched!

The family wishes to express a special thanks to her caregiver, Gertrude who made her comfortable and provided exceptional care the last 2 plus years of her life! She was truly sent from heaven!

Finally Resting in Peace my dearest Barbara! You should be so proud of the work you have done here on earth! We are all better and stronger people going forward because of you! May you watch over us till we see you again!

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024 beginning at 12:00 PM followed by a Funeral Service at 2:00 PM with Pastor Rebecca Sundquist officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to the Alzheimer's Association.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800.

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