Barbara Ann Gabey

Barbara Ann Gabey, 88, of South Bend, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026, at St. Paul's Life Plan Community, South Bend. She was born on March 26, 1937, in South Bend, to the late Alexander and Regina M. (Sikorski) Nowacki. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Regina Gabey, two sisters, Joan Kaniewski and Elaine Miller and her life partner, David Wells. Barbara is survived by her two daughters, Marthe Ann (Kenneth Clark) Gabey of Troy, NY and Karen (Monte) Thomas of South Bend, her son, Michael (Jennifer) Gabey of Lindale, GA; four grandchildren, Theresa, Alexander, Gwen and Emily and by eight great-grandchildren. Ms. Gabey worked as a Human Resource Manager for the City of South Bend.

Our mom was a straight A student, Handy Andy Social Club member, graduate of Central High-Class of '54, hip in the 50s, mod in the 60s and groovy from there on out. She traveled the world, designed houses, was a seamstress, crocheted, gardened and accomplished everything she set her mind to. She loved books, music, recipes, ice cream, tomatoes and dogs. Hated chipmunks.

Mom lived her life fiercely independent.

Although our mother would have loved us to be nearby, she always encouraged us to pursue our dreams and be as independent as she was - even if it took us far away. She never pressed us to come home but was always there when we did.

A graveside service for Barbara will be held at 2 p.m. EST Friday March, 27, 2026 at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend. The family and guests can meet at the cemetery entrance in front of the mausoleum at 1:40 p.m. EST to follow the funeral director to the graveside. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. To send online condolences, please visit http://www.kaniewski.com.