Sylvia Louise Coulon

Sylvia Louise Maples Coulon was born on April 28, 1941, in Richmond, Indiana, to John Thomas Maples and James Margaret Boner. She passed away peacefully in Marietta, Georgia, in the loving home of her daughter Angela Coulon on October 29, 2025.

As a child, Sylvia and her sister Sandra lived in various states—including Indiana, California, and Vermont—following their father's military assignments. These formative years inspired her lifelong dedication to nursing. A high achiever, Sylvia earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University in 1964 and later completed a Master's Degree in Nursing Administration from the same institution in the 1980s.


In the summer of 1968, Sylvia married Burnel Elton Coulon in Muncie, Indiana. She is survived by her children: Michele Lillie Coulon Whitt, Angela Lillie Coulon, Burnel Elton Coulon II, and Sylvia Elaine Coulon Hampton; grandchildren Caitlyn Michele Coulon, Bryce Burnel Coulon, Michaela Rose Whitt, and Micha David Whitt; son-in-law Halil Hampton; sister Sandra Rowe, husband Francis Rowe and their children; and the Russell family. Their 50-year marriage consisted of a long-shared history that profoundly shaped their family and the organizations they served. Omega Psi Phi became central in both their lives as she supported him through his ascension to lead the fraternity.

Sylvia's nursing career was both broad and impactful. She worked as a floor nurse at Indiana University and Winona Hospital in the 1970s and later served as a school nurse in the Indianapolis Public Schools, including Broad Ripple High School, Meredith Nicholson School 96, and Cold Springs School. Ever the educator, she also taught nursing at Ivy Tech in Indianapolis, nurturing future generations of caregivers.

Outside of her professional life, Sylvia was a passionate crafter. Her hand painted figurines, Santas, and nativity scenes are treasured by her children. Each quilt she created holds a special place in their hearts. She was an avid sports fan, faithfully cheering for the Colts and Pacers. In her later years, she found joy in watching games surrounded by her children and grandchildren, both in her room and on her bed.

Sylvia was also a devoted gardener. Though she and "Cou" purchased land intending to build a home, it became a summer garden tended by neighbors and family. Despite her lupus diagnosis, she remained active—dressed in protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, she would pick vegetables or direct her children while she watched from the car.

Her adventurous spirit led her to memorable travels, including visits to St. Simons Island, Disneyland, Yosemite, Santa Barbara, and more. Her children, competing for her travel companionship, knowing she never left home lightly.

Sylvia's legacy is one of unconditional love, quiet strength, and unwavering support. Her acceptance and lack of judgment fostered deep, meaningful relationships with her children. She is profoundly missed. Godspeed.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sylvia Louise Coulon, please visit our flower store.