Barbara Tompkins

1939 - 2023

Barbara Tompkins
February 10, 2023
Barbara L. (Cook) Tompkins, 83, widow of the late Louis D. Tompkins of Stratford CT passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, February 10, 2023. Barbara was born May 1, 1939, in Pittsburgh, PA, daughter of the late Farris and Ruth (Houghtaling) Cook. Barbara was a loving and generous wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, aunt and friend. Known to us all as "Grandma" she enjoyed family above all, friends, quilting, cooking and yearly trips to Aruba. She was the ultimate UCONN men's and women's basketball fan, and NEVER missed a game. She is survived by her children Kristen (Noel) Cocca, Tyler (Kendra) Tompkins, Todd (Cheryl) Tompkins, Lisa (Tom) Mantini, and daughter in law Lori Brown. Grandchildren Jessica (Matt) and Paige (Kyle) Brown, Hailey and Jack Cocca, Gregory, Benjamin, and Caroline Tompkins, Jesse, Todd Jr. (Teffy), Daniel (Alison) , Kyle, Trevor, and Michelle Tompkins, Marissa and Matthew Mantini, and Kimberly (Randy) Gaudette. Great-grandchildren Brody Tompkins, Leah Tompkins, Everly Grey, Taylor, Ava, Emma, Stella, Brooklyn, and Charlotte Gaudette and Jordan Prince. She was predeceased by her sons John and Douglas Brown and her grandson Mike Prince. Barbara was a graduate of The University of Bridgeport with a degree in education. She was a schoolteacher for years then moved on to work at FASB, then working for trade show companies. She was also President of the Stratford Little League. Some of the most important things to Barbara after her family were many dear friends whom she would share "Wine Wednesday" or the daily "Happy Hour". She cherished "The Supper Club" with close friends as well. When that wasn't on the calendar her 6pm glass of wine always was. Every summer she had summer camp at her home for any grandchildren that could attend. Barbara could be found watching every single Met game, every season, no matter what their record. She was never one to complain and always encouraged living life. No matter what was happening in her life, she always was a teacher to her grandchildren and forever will be known for reminding them to "make good choices". From her daughter Kristen: "Mom, I will always cherish your fight to live no matter how hard it was for you. I know how much you loved me and I want you to know I heard you. My love for you is endless." Friends are invited to attend a celebration of her life on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. in the William R/. McDonald Funeral Home, 2591 Main St., Stratford. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Shelton. Friends may visit with family Tuesday evening, February 14, 2023 (Valentine's Day) from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Guests are also invited to wear pink or red for Barbara on valentine's day. For additional information or to share an online condolence, please visit www.wrmcdonaldfuneralhome.com