Anita "Babe" Cashman

Anita "Babe" Cashman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024, at the age of 86. Babe's life was defined by love, dedication, and a spirit that embraced community, family, and service.

Born on March 3, 1938, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Frank (Spike) and Myrtle Bisping, Babe grew up with a strong sense of family. She shared a close bond with her siblings, Jack (Iris/Leah) Bisping and Nichy (Ronnie) LaNeve, and was always a steady, loving presence in their lives. Babe was a proud alumna of West Virginia University, where she captained the synchronized swimming team, an early reflection of her discipline, leadership, and grace. It was at WVU where she met the love of her life, Stu, and together they built a marriage that lasted 64 wonderful years.

Babe's professional journey took her into Dietetics, where she made a significant impact as the Director of the Food Service department for the Utica Community School District in Michigan, one of the largest in the state. But her greatest pride and joy were her children: Cindy (Ryan) Wichtner, Mark (Yvonne) Cashman, and Mike (Andrea) Cashman. Babe’s love for her family extended beyond her children, as she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren—Nikki (Canon) Cofrancesco, Coltin (Morgan) Wichtner, Anastasia Cashman, Lauren Cashman, Daniel Wichtner, McKenna Cashman, and Megan Cashman—and her great-grandson, Maddox Cofrancesco.

While her professional accomplishments were significant, it was her devotion to her family and faith that defined her. A devout Christian, Babe was an active member of the Utica United Methodist Church during her time in Michigan and later the Coronado Community United Methodist Church in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. She attended services regularly, spoke at events, and volunteered her time in various capacities, always eager to contribute to the well-being of others.

Babe’s zest for life extended to her hobbies and passions. She was an enthusiastic member of the Daytona Mustang Club, where she enjoyed connecting with others who shared her love of cars. She also loved hosting vibrant Cinco de Mayo parties at Turnbull Estates, where friends and family gathered to celebrate life and friendship. Babe was an avid Mahjong player and was always up for an adventure—whether it was skiing with the Yeti Ski Club or enjoying a meal at one of her favorite New Smyrna Beach restaurants, like McKenna’s Place or Pappas Drive-In.
Babe’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the love she shared with her family and the many lives she touched through her service and spirit.

Rest in peace, Babe. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Anita "Babe" Cashman, please visit our floral store.