Barbara Etta Dumez

Barbara Dumez passed away July 15, 2025, gently and peacefully, with her daughters by her side. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Thelma Dumez, and her brothers Tom, Jerry, and Bill Dumez. She is survived by her daughters Debra Kuba McCulloch of Shreveport, LA, and Donna Kuba of Newaygo, MI; her bonus grandson, Doug Chatlos (Rachell) and family of Chesapeake, VA. She cherished her grandsons who lovingly referred to her as "Granny Bob," and they loved riding in her station wagon with her rear-facing back seat. She is also survived by cherished nieces and nephews who lovingly referred to her as "Aunt Darlin," with whom she loved spending time and whom she absolutely adored. She had an especially close relationship with her beloved nephew, Tom Dumez Jr., and his wife, Lori, of Byron Center, MI, who were such an integral part of her life.

Barbara was born on August 4, 1941, and grew up in Harmarville, PA, where her dad worked in the coal mine. She graduated from Springdale High School in 1959, where she was active in choir, the girls' athletic pep club, and was known as a skilled roller skater and roller dancer. She moved to Michigan in the early 1960's, and spent many years living in Texas where she worked for the Grand Prairie Independent School District before moving back to Michigan upon her retirement. This was perfect for her, as she absolutely loved kids. She spent many years as a Girl Scout troop leader and was always known as the "Fun Mom" and "Cool Mom" to the neighborhood kids. She absolutely loved people, and, as her high school yearbook said, "Her giggle affected everyone...many words came from someone so short...." She loved spending time with her family and many friends.

We would like to extend a special thanks to the nurses at Lacey's Too for the love and care that they have given Mom for the last two years, and for the kindness and compassion that they have shown to our family.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW Grandville, MI 49418. Family visitation hour will begin at 1:00 p.m., with services starting at 2:00 p.m., and a luncheon following immediately after.

Mom loved everyone, and the joy and light that she brought into the world will never leave us.

The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.