Barbara Helen Rummer

On the evening of August 9, 2025 at 9:50 in the evening, Barbara Helen Rummer passed away at UPMC, surrounded by her family. Preceded in death by her husband Lewis Edward Rummer and her son, Lewis Edward Rummer, Jr., she lived a rich life full of family and friends.
Barb loved the Lord and quietly read her Bible and Daily Bread devotionals every day. Through her daily walk, she set the standard for her family and led by her Christian example. From her children to her grandchildren, from colleagues, neighbors, and friends, she didn't just talk about how you should be, she showed you by example in her service to others. Even in her last days, she talked about how she wanted to volunteer to serve others.
In a neighborhood that constantly changed around her, her home was always a welcome respite for her neighborhood friends. She always had a refrigerator on her back porch stocked full of cold drinks for the people in the neighborhood to cool off during the summer. Neighbors would stop by for a quick chat and a cold drink and she never asked for anything in return, other than to be sure to shut the gate on your way out of the yard. As she aged, those neighbors, especially the kids who grabbed drinks from the fridge, created a hedge of protection around her, making sure she remained safe in her home.
She always made everyone around her feel comfortable, valued, and loved. Growing up, her children were surrounded by cousins and friends, and family time was valued and protected. Sunday dinners were a time for her to cook for the masses and she made everyone feel welcome, always asking, "did you bring a friend?" Throughout her life, she never learned how to cook small meals. Food was love and there was always plenty of it. When you left her home, it was with a hug, an "I love you" and most likely leftovers.
During the years when she was raising her children, Barb and Louie camped every weekend during the summer at the family camp, where they celebrated his Fourth of July birthday together. Those days were filled with fishing, swimming, telling stories around the campfire, and of course a giant family meal.
To her children and grandchildren, she was the perfect example of what a mother and grandmother should be. She taught how to show love, respect others, and to give dignity when you can, even if you don't know the person. She never forgot a birthday, and called to sing happy birthday over the phone.
Throughout her life, she served in her church in many capacities, was active as a Fort Hill Band Parent, working tireless hours in the concession stand, and volunteered with special education students and adults. She was retired from the Allegany County School System, where she was an instructional assistant.
Barbara is survived by her daughter-in-law, Kathy Rummer, her daughter LuAnn Whitaker and husband George, and her son Craig Rummer and wife Lorie. Also surviving her are her grandchildren Jennifer Lynn Phillips (James), Lewis Glen Rummer, Ryan Whitaker (Caitlin), David Whitaker, Tyler Rummer (Kyliegh), and Jacob Rummer (Sierra). She is also survived by her great-grandchildren Luca Rummer and Rylin Whitaker.
The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to Barbara's daughter, LuAnn, who has been her full-time caregiver for several years. With her help, Barb was able to live the last few years of her life to the fullest.
Friends will be received on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at the Centenary United Methodist Church from 12:30 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 P.M., with Pastor Mary George officiating.
Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Park.
As we say goodbye to our mom, Nan, and friend, her one wish for everyone was to take time to stop and smell the flowers and to enjoy the moments with the people around you. We encourage you to live the life she wanted for each of us; to be happy and filled with love and to be sure to take care of each other.