Reba Babst

COOKEVILLE, TN-Reba Babst, 99, of Cookeville, Tennessee passed peacefully from this life on October 4, 2021 at the home she shared with her daughter. Reba was the eldest daughter of the late Rose and Benjamin Rosen. She graduated from the Vineland High School (NJ), where she was an accomplished pianist. Reba continued to learn throughout her life in the fields of both music and art. Reba was married to Ralph Babst for 38 years until his untimely death in 1979. During WWII while Ralph was at sea in the Navy, she clerked for the War Department and the Navy. Afterwards, in addition to maintaining a household with three children, she worked for the General Electric Company for 14 years. Later, she became prominent in the Baltimore/Washington area as a piano teacher, Competitions Coordinator for the Baltimore Music Club and was active in the Music Teachers Association of Baltimore and the Maryland State Music Teachers Association. She was a subscribing member of the National, Baltimore, San Francisco, and Nashville Symphonies, and Opera companies. She also enjoyed art classes and traveled extensively, including to the Galapagos Islands, Russia, China, Africa, and New Zealand just to mention a few. Reba is survived by sisters Irene Goodman and Bernice Weinstock, sons Martin Babst (wife Glenna) and Richard Babst (wife Caren), daughter Carol Babst, and daughter-in-law Karin Loya, 4 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces. In addition to her parents, Reba was preceded in death by her husband Ralph, brother-in-law Ted Weinstock, brother-in-law James Goodman, and nephew Brett Goodman. Also, her many dog and cat companions who were a major part of her life. A celebration of her life is being planned for later. To request notification with details, send email to rebab.event@myactv.net. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made in the honor of Reba to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO). Donations to the BSO can be made online at www.bsomusic.org/donate by scrolling down to “Tribute Giving”. Hooper-Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at hhhfunerals.com