Connie Cottingham, 81, of Milan passed away peacefully Friday May 15, 2026, at her home with her loving family by her side. Connie was born Saturday, January 27, 1945, in Milan to Elmer and Hazel (Biddle) Lauber. She married Don Cottingham, and he survives.
Connie was passionate about caring for children and the importance of education. She taught fourth grade at Milan Elementary School for twenty-four years where she developed many lifelong friendships. She loved Indiana history, and many may remember her no-nonsense, steady, but kind demeanor.
Connie was a member of the Ripley County Retired Teachers Association and the Milan United Methodist Church. She loved music, playing piano at several churches and after retirement, took up the harp. She loved to travel, taking many trips with her friends, Bev & Janie, and her family. She always enjoyed reading and working puzzles. When she was in the hospital, she was told her blood type was B positive which she immediately embraced as her mantra. She faced her health battles with that optimistic mindset, unassuming grace, and unwavering faith.
Connie is survived by her husband Don; her children, Terri (Jim) Orem, Tim (Cindy) Cottingham of Milan, Tricia (Ed) Johnson of Osgood, Mandy (Ken) Fronek of McCordsville and Nikki (Mark) Monroe of Madison; brother Kenny (Claudia) Lauber of Austin, Texas; grandchildren Andrew (Betsy) Roembke, Lillie Fronek, Cale Kreegar, Bryce Weber, Myles Monroe and Oliver Monroe, and great-grandson Isaiah Roembke, as well as several nieces and nephews- all of whom she adored. In addition to her family, Connie is survived by the many stories of her full and purposeful life that she loved to share.
In addition to her parents, Connie was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Gary Lauber.
Family and friends may gather to remember Connie from 10 am -12 pm at the Laws-Carr-Moore Funeral Home in Milan. Services will follow with Pastor Tom Holt officiating. Burial will follow at New Craven Cemetery in Milan. Memorials may be given in honor of Connie to Milan United Methodist Church or Milan Volunteer Fire Department.
Laws-Carr-Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements: 707 S. Main St., P.O. Box 243, Milan, IN 47031; (812) 654-2141. Please visit our website at www.lawscarrmoore.com to share your condolences and memories of Connie.