Aurelia E. Gilpin, age 96, of Plymouth, Indiana, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. She was born on May 28, 1929, in LaPorte, Indiana, to Carl Edward McCoy Sr. and Hazel Marie McCoy (Skinner). Aurelia lived a long and beautiful life marked by devotion to her family, a deep and steady faith in God, a strong work ethic, and a personality that was as spirited as it was loving.

From the very beginning, Aurelia carried within her a strength and determination that would shape the rest of her life. She grew up surrounded by a large family that included five brothers, and the lively spirit of those early years stayed with her forever. She was known throughout her life for being a bit of a rascal, playful, strong-willed, and wonderfully stubborn. If Aurelia had something on her mind, there was little chance anyone was going to change it. Yet beneath that stubbornness was a warm heart, a quick wit, and a sense of humor that brought laughter to those around her.

Aurelia believed deeply in the value of hard work. She spent many years working at Schafer Gear Works, where she gave her time and effort faithfully until her retirement. She took pride in doing things well and in contributing to the life she and her family built together.

One of the greatest blessings of her life was her marriage to her beloved husband, William Gilpin. Together they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, perseverance, laughter, and family. Though William passed away 16 years ago, Aurelia carried his memory with her always. Their long marriage was a testament to commitment, loyalty, and a lifetime of shared experiences.

Home and family were the center of Aurelia’s world. She had a remarkable gift in the kitchen and was known by those who loved her as an incredible cook and baker. Cooking was more than just a task for Aurelia, it was one of the ways she showed her love. Her kitchen was often filled with wonderful aromas and the comforting sounds of meals being prepared. She could cook a truly memorable meal, and those lucky enough to sit at her table knew they were in for something special. Many cherished memories were made around the meals she lovingly prepared.

Beyond the kitchen, Aurelia found joy in life’s simple and quiet moments. She loved writing letters, staying in touch with family and friends through thoughtful words written by hand. Those letters carried pieces of her heart and kept connections strong across miles and years.

She also enjoyed spending peaceful time watching the birds outside her window. Living by a lake gave her a special view of nature, and she could often be found quietly observing the birds that came and went throughout the day. These small moments brought her great contentment.

To her family, Aurelia’s hugs were something truly special. They were warm, comforting, and full of love, something that will be deeply missed. She had a way of making people feel cared for, whether it was through a meal, a laugh, a teasing remark, or simply being present.

Aurelia was a woman of deep Christian faith. Her belief in the Lord carried her through life’s joys and sorrows, and she held firmly to the promise of eternal life. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with those who went before her and resting in the presence of the Lord she trusted so deeply. While her absence leaves a profound space in their hearts, they hold on to the hope and assurance that they will see her again one day.

Her family takes comfort in the words of faith that remind them this is not goodbye, but only a temporary parting. In God’s perfect time, they will be reunited once again with the mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman they loved so dearly.

Aurelia’s life spanned nearly a century, years filled with change, growth, family, laughter, challenges, and faith. Through it all, she remained strong, loving, and unmistakably herself. Her playful teasing, her stubborn spirit, her warm hugs, and the meals she prepared with love will forever remain treasured memories for those who knew her.

Though she has left this world, the legacy of her love lives on in the many lives she touched. Her family is grateful for every moment they were blessed to share with her and will hold those memories close forever.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Gilpin; her parents, Carl Edward McCoy Sr. and Hazel Marie McCoy; her five brothers; her son, Mickey Gilpin; her daughter, Diana Gilpin; and her grandson, Garrett Gilpin, who passed away in 2020.

She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and will carry her memory forward. She is survived by her sons, Scott Gilpin and Bill Gilpin. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Billy, Helen, and Ashley Crockett; her great-grandchildren, including Ariah Gilpin and Ashley Crockett’s four children; along with extended family members and loved ones who will continue to remember her with affection.

There will be no formal services held at this time. A private burial will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 10776 McKinley Highway, Osceola, Indiana.