Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
DR. J. KAYE CUPPLES
1951 - 2019
DR. J. KAYE CUPPLES
1951 - 2019
Obituary
Guest Book
J. CUPPLES Obituary
Age 68, of South Fayette, PA passed away surrounded by family and friends on Monday, September 23, 2019. Born on January 9, 1951, he was the son of the late Grace and George Cupples. Loving father to Jason and his wife, Dana Cupples; cherished PaPa to Ethan Cupples and Connor Zold. Loving brother to Lorraine and her husband, Tony DeFilippo, Lynn and husband, Kenny Hoak and Anne and husband, Lou Woistman; dear uncle to Christopher and wife, Natalie DeFillippo, Lynne and husband, William St. Hilarie and Andrea and husband, Ben Yezer, Janelle and Samantha Hoak, and Erik and Katey Woistman. Kaye was also blessed with two great-nieces and four great-nephews. He was survived by many loving cousins whom he enjoyed sharing his home with on Christmas Eve. Kaye's longtime career at Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) demonstrated his passion for students with disabilities and special needs. He started his career as a Speech and Language Pathologist where he transitioned to a becoming a Speech and Language Pathologist who worked exclusively with the deaf/hearing impaired at PPS. He then became a Supervisor in Special Education and rose to become the Associate Director of Division for Exceptional Children where he eventually became the Director at PPS. Kaye's last position at PPS was the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent encompassing athletics, students with exceptionalities, and student services. He was an Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, Carlow University, and Point Park University, and later became the Department Head at Point Park. He was the author of numerous articles related to special education. Kaye was a Principle Partner of WingSpan Alliance Special Education Consulting Services including the Summit Academy. He served on the board at The Watson Institute and The PEAL Center. After his retirement, he was instrumental in establishing City Connections. Kaye's passion for education was demonstrated by his achievement of two Master's degrees, a Doctorate, and a Letter of Superintendency. Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, September 26, 2019 from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. at PITTSBURGH CREMATION AND FUNERAL CARE, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, (724) 260-5546. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 27, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Louise de Marillac, 320 McMurray Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH. A private burial will take place at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Kaye's name to Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, emmauspgh.org. Please view and sign the family's online guestbook at pittsburghcremation.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kate Cox
October 1, 2019
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.Kay was a wonderful neighbor and a great meal companion to my dad (Rich Klaber) in personal care. Even though they were from different professions, dad spoke often of his respect of Kay's knowledge and accomplishments. They would share stories and information of the law and education worlds with equal passions.We lost our dad in June. It is so tough losing such a large influence in our lives,but the good memories, the guidance, and the love they shared with us will always be a part of us.Kate Cox
Ernestine Reed
September 27, 2019
I had the pleasure of working with both Kaye and his father at the Pittsburgh Board of Education where they both left a legacy of commitment to the children of our city. Condolences are extended to the Cupple's family.
Ernestine Reed, Retired Executive Director of Middle Schools, PPS
Mark Blasco
September 26, 2019
Dr Cupples was a great leader and a phenomenal motivator.He had the ability to make everyone feel important.I was fortunate to work for him.My sympathies to the Cupples's family
Amy Guthrie
September 26, 2019
Dr. Cupples left an incredible legacy for students with disabilities. I feel privileged to have known him, and to have seen the results of his tireless work, not only for my son, but for the thousands of students whose lives he touched. My condolences to the family.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Edward Kocur
September 26, 2019
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to Lynn and the entire Cupples family on Kaye's passing. It only took one meeting to recognize Kaye's passion for education and the children of PPS A tremendous educator and man.
Ginny Lewandoski
September 25, 2019
To our dear friend Kathy,
We were so very sad to hear of Kaye's passing. Our time spent together sharing friendship, laughter, and joyful experiences was treasured by all of us. We will miss his fun loving personality as well as his kindness and generosity.
Our thoughts are with you although we are unable to join you to bid farewell to your dearest friend. We know how much love you shared and how greatly you will miss him.
With much love,
Chuck and Ginny
Ginny Lewandoski
September 25, 2019
To our dear friend Kathy,
We were so very sad to hear of Kaye's passing. Our time spent together sharing friendship, laughter, and joyful experiences was treasured by all of us. We will miss his fun loving personality as well as his kindness and generosity.
Our thoughts are with you although we are unable to join you to bid farewell to your dearest friend. We know how much love you shared and how greatly you will miss him.
With much love,
Chuck and Ginny
Cal Seibel
September 25, 2019
I worked with Kaye at PPS for a number of years. He was always a pleasure to work with. My condolences to his family and friends.
September 25, 2019
Kathy and Cupples family, We are so sorry that Kaye is gone. Kaye was an integral part of our family as well, present at all of our important family gatherings. Our children considered him an uncle and especially loved celebrating Christmas Day dinners with Kathy and Kaye. He was loved and will be sorely missed. Cynthia Donahoe
Sandy Opferman
September 25, 2019
Dear Kathy,
We are so sorry to hear of Kaye's passing. Over the years, you and Kaye were always so kind and caring to our family. I know how much you are going to miss Kaye. He was a wonderful man.
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May Kaye Rest In Peace. God Bless
Sandy Opferman and Family
Annette and Ed Stinson
September 25, 2019
Our deepest sympathies to Jason, Lorraine and family. Dr. Cupples was a great combination of intelligence, professionalism, and compassion the likes of which we too rarely see. He has been missed by Pittsburgh Public Schools since his retirement but his legacy will live on through his influence on his colleagues and those he mentored.
Louise's Carlino
September 25, 2019
Lorraine and Tony
Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences for all members of the Cupples Family at this difficult time. May the prayers and words expressed, let all of you know; that we care and each one of you are not alone at this time.The Carlino Families
Glenn Ponas
September 25, 2019
My wife, Dina, and I are truly sorry to hear of Kaye's passing. We both worked with him in the Pittsburgh Public Schools and appreciated his professionalism and dedication. Our condolences to the family.
September 25, 2019
My heartfelt condolences go to the Cupples family. Kaye was a tremendous school administrator who helped me with his advice when dealing with educational issues. Just as important, Kaye was a friend who I depended upon when necessary.
Rick Sternberg, Retired Principal, Grandview Elementary;
Past Pittsburgh Administrators Association
President
Vince Carr Retired Principal, Peabody
September 25, 2019
So saddened to learn of Kaye's passing. Working with him in the PPS was a great experience for me. He was a gentleman and a gentle man.
September 25, 2019
Kaye's professionalism and kindness will not be forgotten.
-Julie Ricca
STEPHANIE TECZA
September 25, 2019
This really breaks my heart. Kaye was instrumental in the inclusion of student with disabilities in PPS. He really understood what it took to make inclusion work. My daughter Leah benefited from his leadership. You will truly be missed. My deepest sympathy to the Cupples family. What a great guy. What an amazing footprint he has left on this earth.
Debbie Casaldi / Jendrasik
September 25, 2019
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of this wonderful man. I grew up with Kaye in Brookline and attended Resurrection School with him . We remained friends for many years and shared mutual friends . I remember his green VW bug , it went on many trips around the city. He was such a strong advocate for Education for everyone and his good deeds will never be forgotten. God Bless all of you and may you find peace knowing he was loved and respected by all who knew him .
Michael Falce
September 25, 2019
Jason and Family,
Sorry for your loss. Your Father did so many great things for PPS and the surrounding communities. He will be missed.
Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results
Make a Donation
in J. CUPPLES's name
How to support J.'s loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor J. CUPPLES's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
