Nancy Jo L. (Travis) Coles, a longtime resident of Plymouth, and current resident of Yorktown, IN, beloved mother and grandmother passed away at the age of 72 on January 7 2025.
Nancy Jo was a person of remarkable generosity and compassion, known for her warmth, wit, and devotion to her family. As a mother, grandmother, and friend she was deeply cherished and will be profoundly missed by her loved ones.
Born in South Bend, Indiana, on March 16, 1952, Nancy Jo was the daughter of Donald K. and Marian M.(Kaszas) Travis. She graduated from Plymouth High School in 1970, where she was an active member of the choir as well as many other extracurricular activities. She continued her academic journey at DePauw University, graduating with honors, before earning her master's degree from the University of Louisville.
A dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Nancy Jo devoted much of her professional life to serving others in various mental health agencies, including a tenure at Crown Point High School in Crown Point, Indiana. Her empathetic nature left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Nancy Jo was an ardent supporter of the University of Notre Dame, following in the footsteps of her father, Donald K. Travis, a double graduate of the university. Her passion for Notre Dame was a shared tradition within her family, and her son, Travis, carried on this legacy, passing it to his own son, Bryant Travis Coles.
A devout Christian, Nancy Jo was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Plymouth and other congregations during her life. She contributed her time and talents to various church committees and sang in multiple choirs. Throughout her life, she remained unwavering in her faith, drawing comfort from scripture and Christian teachings, particularly during her final years when her health declined. Her family finds peace in the knowledge that she is now in the presence of her Lord and no longer enduring earthly suffering.
Nancy Jo’s selflessness was evident in all aspects of her life. In the final decade of her life, when facing significant physical and emotional challenges, she continued to put others first. During frequent hospital visits, she often insisted that her son, Travis, return home, always concerned for the well-being of her grandson, Bryant, and daughter-in-law, Mindy.
One of her fondest memories was assisting in the construction of the family cottage at Lake of the Woods in Bremen, IN, the same lake where her grandparents had built the first house on that lake’s property. It was there that she cherished many joyful moments with her parents, son and his family. This cottage remains in the family to this day.
Above all, Nancy Jo found her greatest joy in the presence of her only grandson, Bryant Travis Coles, whose accomplishments and happiness brought her immeasurable pride and delight. She will forever be remembered for the love and devotion she shared with her family.
Nancy Jo is survived by her son, Travis R. Coles, daughter-in-law, Dr. Mindy C. Wallpe, and her grandson, Bryant T. Coles, all of Yorktown, Indiana. She is preceded in death by her parents, Donald K. and Marian M. (Kaszas) Travis.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 18th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A funeral service to celebrate Nancy Jo’s life will follow, with a procession to burial at New Oak Hill Cemetery immediately afterward. Both the visitation and funeral service will take place at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, located at 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth, IN 46563, with Pastor Lauren Hall officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nancy Jo’s name to the Plymouth First United Methodist Church, 400 North Michigan Street, Plymouth, Indiana 46563, for the Nancy Jo L. (Travis) Coles Memorial Fund.
Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences can be left for the family at www.johnson-danielson.com
