Feb. 12, 1939 - Oct. 23, 2010

ELKHART -- Barbara W. Hughes, 71, passed away from natural causes at 5:15 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, at Golden Living Center in Elkhart.

She was born on Feb. 12, 1939, to Thomas C. and Isabelle (Oatley) Whalen in Providence, R.I.

She is survived by three sons, George M. "Mark" (Susan) Kinsman of Bristol, William P. (Cathy) Kinsman and Russell F. Kinsman, both of Quitman, Ga., and a sister, Patricia Morris of Gulf Breeze, Fla. Also surviving are grandchildren Billy (Jessica) Kinsman of Atlanta, Ga., Shelia Kinsman of Quitman, Sara Kinsman (Michael Baldwin) and Shelly (Adam) Yearta, both of Valdosta, Ga., Jessica L. Kinsman of Fort Wayne, Scott Kinsman of Tennessee, Bolita K. (Drew) Riley of Three Rivers, Mich., and Robert J. Keller, Mark M. Kinsman and Lorinesa S. (Jon) Ferguson, all of Elkhart; and great-grandchildren Kylie, Alyssa, Christopher, Lydia, Anthony and Ethan Kinsman, Bailey and Landon Yearta, Ryan and Drew Ferguson, Jake Baldwin, Casey and Hope Martinell, Alicia and Samuel Riley, Kirsten, Kylee and Kaden Keller and Annisten Tinsley. A host of nieces, nephews and cousins survive as well.

No formal services have been planned, and Barbara's remains are to be cremated. A memorial gathering of friends and family is taking place on Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010, at the home of Barbara's son, Mark Kinsman, at 15897 C.R. 108, Bristol, IN 46507, where Barbara's life will be celebrated.

She worked in the sales and marketing of retirement properties in Florida for more than 20 years. Barbara enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren and will be best remembered for a loving heart, open arms and for always "being there" when someone needed her.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514, is handling arrangements. Memorial contributions may be given to the City of Elkhart Fire Department.