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Betty Grace Cupoli

FUNERAL HOME

John Quint Treboni Funeral Home

1177 West 5th Avenue

Columbus, Ohio

Betty Cupoli Obituary

Cupoli Betty Grace (Garrison) Cupoli of Columbus, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at age 95. Born, January 1, 1919, in New Concord, Ohio, she is preceded in death by her husband Vito. Survived by son, Vaughn of Phoenix (AZ); and daughter, Giannina "Sam" Farr of Columbus; three grandchildren, Michele (Farr) Stead, Vincent Cupoli and Valerie Cupoli; grandson-in-law, Kevin Stead; four great-grandchildren, Gus Stead, Bailey, Malley and Nicholas Cupoli; and numerous other family members and dear friends. She was taught to read at an early age by her grandfather who had served in the Civil War. She graduated from New Concord High School and then Muskingum College in 1939 with double major in English and Music. She was a member of the FAD Sorority and SAI, Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, the Alpha Gamma Chapter and a founding member of the Columbus Alumnae Chapter where she served the Chapter as president from 1981-1983. She also served as the Charter's permanent By-Law Chairperson. She was an accomplished violinist performing with various orchestras since age 14, most recently with the Greater Columbus Community Orchestra. Betty was also an accomplished pianist. She retired from teaching after 25 years at East High School in 1980 where she taught English, Speech and Debate and was a tireless champion for the cause of Speech and Debate at East High School. During that period, speech and debate was an integral part of the East High School tradition with many participants in District, State and National Speech tournaments. She was instrumental in East's participation in the National Forensic League and with the school receiving its prestigious Diamond Key award. She was inducted into the Ohio High School Speech Teachers Hall of Fame. She also was a member of St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church of more than 50 years, where she began the first women's choir in the Diocese of Columbus. Friends may call 4-7 p.m., Sunday, February 23, 2014 at THE JOHN QUINT TREBONI FUNERAL HOME, 1177 West Fifth Avenue, Columbus. Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 24, 2014 at St. Mary Magdalene Parish, 473 S. Roys Avenue, with a graveside burial at 2:30 p.m., in the New Concord Cemetery, New Concord, Ohio. Condolences may be sent via www.johnquint.com.

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Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Feb. 21 to Feb. 23, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Betty Cupoli

26 Entries

Lowanna M Clark-Owens

February 15, 2024

We´re reaching an age where some memories for some of us may be fading. Doubt if any memories of Ms. Cupoli will ever fade. I thank her even more today for the good and rich experiences she gave her students. Lowanna M. Clark Owens, East High School Class of 1965

Lowanna M. (Clark) Owens

February 18, 2022

In memory, fond memories of Mrs. Cupoli's encouragement and support. Proud to be a product of her positive influence. East High School Graduating Class of 1965. Lowanna M. Clark-Owens in photo with Mrs. Cupoli.

Mary Ann DeVolld

February 15, 2019

On this fifth anniversary of Betty's passing, I want to once again tell you how much Betty meant to so many women of the F.A.D. Club at Muskingum College (now University). Whenever we gather at F.A.D. alumnae meetings, Betty is remembered. She always dressed in our "school" colors - black & magenta, and sometimes may have chastised those of us who didn't wear those colors for a "Muskie" event (all in good fun). She was interested in the young women of the club, and her stories helped to inspire them to be "ladies." She helped us "bring out the best in everyone."

Deborah Latham-White

November 17, 2014

Mrs Cupoli was one of my favorite teachers during my time as a student at East High School. I was a member of the debate team and spent many Saturday mornings riding with her to tournaments.
I had the opportunity to see her playing the violin during a summer theatre production. The last time that we connected was during a movie preview.

I still appreciate the relationship between us. I use the skills that I learned to this day.
Mrs C. sowed good seeds of knowledge.

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Connie Gillette

February 26, 2014

A candle lit to show the light Betty always showed to everyone. Rest in peace with our Lord and I thank Him for honoring me with the priviledge of knowing you for so many years. God please bless Sam and carry her through.

Class of 1965 Reunion September 2005

Lowanna Clark-Owens

February 25, 2014

We will miss Mrs Cupoli. She showed us genuine love when we were children and adults. She taught us values that will serve us for a lifetime. Thank you Mrs Cupoli for always joining our class reunions and reminding us that you stilled loved us.

Rest in Peace,

Velda Boyer Otey
EHS Class of 1970

Upper Arlington Orchestra 2007

Larry Clark

February 24, 2014

Family, Mrs. Cupoli came to Columbus East High the same year as I (1955) and although (due to transfer because of class overcrowding) I was in her class for only one week, as a student office helper, i still had regular contact with her and recognized her as a loving and caring teacher.

When we were planning our 50-year reunion, she was one to the MUST INVITE people on the list. The committee had a good laugh over the fact that she, at age 89 3/4 was picking up another former and much younger teacher who could not drive at night.

It was only a few years ago that that I was able to hear her play with the Upper Arlington Orchestra (I think). I hope i can have a similar vibrant spirit should I be fortunate enough to reach her age.

May God bless you all with many beautiful memories.

Larry Clark Class of 1958

Frncine Embry Ashe'

February 24, 2014

What a positive, life long impact she made on us all! My favorite teacher of English, speech, debate and coach of our winning National Forensic League. My mentor and a family friend as well, I cherish the time spent with her. EHS '67

Henry Bland

February 24, 2014

Mrs. Cupoli will be missed by the class of "68" which I was a part. I remember Mrs. Cupoli taking my team members and myself, on Saturdays, to debate throughout the central Ohio area. It was a wonderful experience I still remember one of the debate topics! Later in life I taught at East High with Mrs. Cupoli prior to her retirement. She will be missed.

Linda Jefferson

February 24, 2014

Condolences to the Cupoli family. I am a member of the Class of 1961 and saw Mrs. Cupoli dancing in The Electric Slide at several of our reunions. We will miss her.

Janice McCloud

February 24, 2014

I knew Betty Grace through her connection with Muskingum University, but I also knew of her through my colleague who had coached speech against Betty's team. He tells me that Betty was the consummate speech coach and teacher, and had some of the finest competitors in the history of Ohio high school forensics. Betty, we'll miss you.

Yvonne Method-Walker

February 24, 2014

To the family of Mrs. Cupoli . . .

Your mother, grandmother, mother-in-law lived a full, spirit-filled life, one in which she found joy in everything she did.

I was a student at East High School during her tenure and witnessed her energy, enthusiam for and committment to teaching and the easy relationships she had with students. Most recently (in 2008)at a high school reunion, she was on the dance floor doing the 'electric slide' better than those present who were junior to her 90 [then] years.

Know that she will be remembered so very fondly by her former students whose lives she touched in so many ways.

In the days and years to come, celebrate her life/her legacy with the many special memories and joys that she shared with those who have loved her best. GOD BLESS . . .

East High School Class of 1972

February 23, 2014

Mrs. Cupoli, you're positive influence lives on in us. See you at the Great Reunion.

Jerri Henderson

February 23, 2014

Betty Cupoli was the reason I learned to play piano she encouraged me to take piano lessons and that is why I love piano today. I was 10 years old when she did that for me. I am now 67. I will always remember her.

Carrie Garrett

February 23, 2014

It was always a pleasure seeing and having Mrs. Cupoli at our reunions (Class of1968). She will be missed in body but I know that she will be there in spirit.

February 23, 2014

May God give you the strength needed at this difficult time.

Marcus Hawkins

February 23, 2014

It was a joy to have known Betty since 1970. She was my teacher and speech coach. She was instrumental in forming the person I am today. Loving her always Marcus Hawkins

Brenda Tabor

February 22, 2014

I was so fortunate and honored to know Betty Grace. She and I shared a very special bond.I will always treasure the inspiration and memories she left with me. My condolences and prayers are with Sam and all her family. God bless.

Rodney Adams

February 22, 2014

Many of our generation had the blessing of a teacher that made a real impact on our lives. Betty Cupoli stands with but a few that after 40 years I credit with helping to mold me into what I am today. She had a similar influence on countless others who loved her and will always remember her. The family can find comfort in her legacy that will shine as a bright light for years to come within so many of her students, colleagues and friends. EHS '71

Mary Ann DeVolld

February 22, 2014

At Muskingum College, Betty was an inspiration to the FAD Club. Betty was loyal to her alma mater and her club, the oldest women's club on campus. Generations of young women in the FAD Club came to know her, respect her, and love her because of the contributions she made to our club but also because of the role model she was to us. Betty believed in showing pride in our college community which she continued to do whenever she returned to the campus. Because of Betty, the FAD Alumnae raised funds to support the actives on campus, and we continue to do just that. We will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the FAD Club on campus this June with many of our FAD members returning. We will miss having Betty with us, but we know she will be with us in spirit. Betty, you were a treasure, and I, like many others, am blessed for having known you.

East High Class 1968

February 22, 2014

Each day she banked an ounce of kindness so at the end of her life time she has created her own rainbow. Our love to her family.

February 22, 2014

To the Family of Mrs Cupoli. Prayiny for friends to comfort you. Faith to uphold you,and Loving memories to carry you through. Norma Baker Daniels (Class of 1967 Columbus East High School)

B. K.

February 22, 2014

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

February 22, 2014

Betty,you were a great inspiration to me as a beginning teacher within the Columbus Public Schools. I will cherish the fond memories of my very first teaching assignment teaching with you at East High School forever.
Love you always.

Henry G. Scott

Patrica (Duren) Johnson

February 21, 2014

Mrs. Cupoli was responsible for our debating team during 1958-61, making many long bus trips for several tournaments. She helped us to prepare arguments and taught us to speak extemporaneously on almost any topic. High standards and great love of her field and her students made her an outstanding teacher and one I will never forget. Thank you Mrs. Cupoli for your great teaching service.

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