Obituaries

“Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received, only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and courage.”
-St. Francis of Assisi

On the morning of June 8th, 2026 Jean died peacefully in her apartment as a result of a stroke. She was loving and humorous through her final days. She was surrounded by the love of her family, music, and the compassionate care of her devoted caregivers. She was 97 years old.

Jean was born on September 22nd, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois to Frederick William Mitchell and Margaret Donaldson Stephen Mitchell. She had one brother, Ian Douglas Mitchell, who was two years older. The family moved to Parsons, Kansas where she and her brother eagerly embraced their music lessons until the family relocated again to Indianapolis.

Jean’s family attended The Episcopal Church of All Saints in Indianapolis where she met Phillip N. Smith. The two were married at All Saints on February 13th, 1955. Jean and Phil had five children: Kevin (1956) Craig (1958), Andrew (1960), Anne (1962), and Brandt (1963) Their faith was central to how they lived their lives and how they raised their children. She and Phil enjoyed 55 years of marriage until his death in 2010.

After Phil died, Jean continued her spiritual journey by becoming involved with the Sisters of Providence at Saint Mary of the Woods in Terre Haute, Indiana, and in 2014 she became a Providence Associate. Associates seek through prayer to be guided in their mission. Jean’s mission included, “to provide compassion, respect, and trust to very vulnerable people.” She succeeded in that mission.

In 1949, Jean pursued a two year pre-nursing program at Canterbury College in Danville, Indiana, and three years at St Luke’s School of Nursing in Chicago from which she graduated in 1954 as an RN. Some of her early career positions included supervising nursing staff while working at IU Med Center, Methodist Hospital Hospice, and St. Vincent Hospice where she was brought on as the Family Outreach Referral Nurse. She implemented a bereavement follow-up program for families, and traveled to public speaking appearances to introduce the practice and philosophy of Hospice care.

Jean became interested in hospice care after reading Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross’ book “On Death and Dying,” which emphasized home care vs hospital care and urged that terminal patients should be involved in the decision-making of their end-of-life care. As a strong believer of hospice principles, Jean talked openly about her own death for years, and she died at home exactly the way she planned.

After a brief “retirement”, Jean went back to work in elder care at the Cambridge Nursing & Rehabilitation Center where she was the Assistant Director of Nursing. She eventually returned to St. Vincent and took on a variety of roles, none more passionately than providing bedside care for hospice patients.

Jean enjoyed gardening, knitting, DIY projects, singing in the choir, dancing, and playing the piano at home and at church. She also enjoyed performing/singing in front of a crowd, and being surrounded by her family, especially the grandchildren. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her zest for life, and her passionate respect for all creatures.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband Phillip N. Smith, her oldest son Kevin Smith, her son-in-law Mark Bonini, and her brother Ian Mitchell. She is survived by her children Craig Smith, Andrew Smith, Anne Bonini, and Brandt Smith, and by her daughters-in-law Mary Smith, Brenda Wolfersberger, Michelle Smith, and MaryStar Ely and her grandchildren, Sarah, Patrick, Emily, Olivia, Matthew, Juniper, Angus, Iris, Cici, Jacob, and by her great grandchildren, Paxton and Charleigh.

The family wishes to thank the exceptional care Jean received from her care-team, including the dedicated staff at Hooverwood, along with the committed A.R.N. Hospice team. A special thanks to Alma & Becky for providing unparalleled care to Jean & Phil for over 20 years.

Jean generously donated her body to the IU Anatomical Education Program at Indiana University School of Medicine. This gift will contribute significantly to the advancement of health science education in the state of Indiana. Those, like Jean, who decide to bequeath their bodies to the health sciences have made a significant contribution that benefits the quality of life and care for the living.

Service to be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at The Episcopal Church of All Saints, 1559 Central Avenue, Indianapolis 46202. Visitation with the family from 10:00am to 11:00 am. Funeral Mass at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s name can be made to Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary of the Woods or to the Miracle Place Community Center.

“My Lord, it is time to move on. Well then, may your will be done. O my Lord and my Spouse, the hour that I have longed for has come. It is time for us to meet one another.”
-St. Theresa of Avila

Larry Wayne Tetzloff, 74, of LaPorte passed away on June 1, 2026 at Northwest Health-Porter Hospital. He was born in LaCrosse, IN on January 17, 1952 to Arthur E.W. Tetzloff and Zelda (Poisel) Tetzloff.

Larry is survived by his wife, JoEllen Tetzloff; his sons, Marcus A. Tetzloff and Donovan D. Tetzloff; his sister, Teena (Tetzloff) King; his brother, J.B. Tetzloff; as well as several nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Arthur Tetzloff.

As a final act of generosity, Larry donated his body to MedCure to support medical education and research.

Georgette Rose Smith, 69, of Atlanta, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at Community Hospital North, surrounded by family. She was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on April 16, 1957, to George and Alma Carlene (Nipper) Chumley.

A 1975 graduate of Edinburgh High School, Georgette developed a lifelong love of music while singing in choir and playing clarinet in the school band. Music remained at the heart of her life and ministry for decades to come.

For more than 25 years, she owned and operated Sound Masters Entertainment, a mobile DJ service that provided entertainment for countless weddings, celebrations, and community events throughout Indiana. She also shared her talents as a former preschool director and music teacher at St. Philip Neri Catholic School.

Most recently, Georgette was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Tipton, where she faithfully served as choir director. Her compassion for others led her to establish the St. Margaret of Castello Ministry, an outreach dedicated to collecting and distributing medical equipment and supplies for underserved individuals and families. She was also a proud member of the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association.

A gifted musician, Georgette loved to sing and play the keyboard, guitar, and numerous other instruments. She was an avid reader, enjoyed crocheting, and possessed a vibrant personality that made her truly one of a kind. Above all else, Georgette cherished her family. She and her beloved husband, Robert “Vince” Smith, shared more than 50 years of marriage and a lifetime of love, having been together since they were very young.

She is survived by her husband, Vince; her children, Melissa (Chris) Zwarka of Glasgow, Kentucky, Jeremy Smith of Brownsburg, Marcia Smith of Noblesville; her brother, Steve (Katie) Chumley of Virginia; her grandchildren, Ralan Clymer of Noblesville, Nevaeh Smith of Noblesville, and Jasmine Smith of Atlanta; along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Benjamin Smith; and her brother, Allen Chumley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Margaret of Castello Ministry, c/o St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 340 Mill Street, Tipton, Indiana 46072.

A celebration of Georgette’s life will be held at a later date.

James “Jim” Marshall, 82, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026. Born on October 11, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois.

Jim was the son of Ed and Ruth Marshall and grew up alongside his four siblings, Ed, Bob, Betty and Bruce. All have preceded him in death with the exception of his youngest brother, Bruce.

Jim was a graduate of Crown Point High School class of 1962. He also attended LeTourneau University in Texas and was a student athlete on the wrestling team.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Jim served his country during the Vietnam War. His time in the military left an indelible mark on him, shaping his character and deepening his appreciation for life. He often reflected on the moment he boarded the plane home from Vietnam—a memory filled with joy and gratitude that he likened to his anticipation of going “Home” to Heaven in his final days.

After returning from Vietnam, Jim worked as a carpenter at Inland Steel for 30 years until his retirement. He also was an entrepreneur and had his own construction/roofing company on the side.

Jim married the love of his life, Marsha. Together they had three children: Matt (Laura) Marshall, Marsha Elizabeth (died in infancy), Meagan (Ron) Ewing. Jim has five grandchildren: Kylie Marshall, Mitchell Marshall, Luke Marshall, Layne Ewing and Tom Ewing—who brought him immense pride and joy.

A man of unwavering faith, Jim was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. He was deeply involved in his church community where he also sang in the choir. Jim’s love for singing brought joy not only to himself but also to those who heard him lift his voice in praise. His faith was not just a part of his life; it was the foundation upon which he built everything.

His woodworking skills and love of gardening were another outlet for creativity and practicality. He often gifted his neighbors with vegetables from his garden or with items he made in the workshop that gave him so much joy and purpose, Maker Playground.

Jim’s life was marked by hard work and resourcefulness. He approached every task with dedication and care. Jim was also known for his dry sense of humor and thoughtful nature. He was strong in every sense—physically, mentally, and spiritually—and always sought to bless others through acts of kindness.

Jim remained active and engaged until his final days spent in the hospital. These last days did not diminish his spirit; instead, it became an opportunity for him to share hope and faith with everyone who crossed his path.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 11, 2026, at 01:00 PM at Legacy Bible Church (13490 Howe Road,Fishers, IN 46038)

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made by check to the Fishers Parks Foundation (8100 E. 106 th St. Fishers, IN 46037 – put “Maker Playground” in the memo.)  Maker Playground is a public state-of-the-art space filled with tools, resources and technology to encourage creativity, engineering, building and more.  Digital donations can be arranged by contacting: fishersparksfoundation@gmail.com.

John W. “Bill” Bradbury passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, at Morrison Woods Health Campus in Muncie. He was born on January 13, 1944, in Sullivan, Indiana.

John was a graduate of Winchester High School (Class of 1962) and went on to attend Indiana University, where he earned a degree in Business (Accounting) in 1966. He began his professional career with RCA in New York City, later working for Magnavox in Urbana, Illinois. He then joined Essex International as an internal auditor and eventually served as Controller of their Air Supply Division.

Following his retirement, John returned home to Indiana to be closer to family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Jennie (Gore) Bradbury, and his younger brother, Larry.  John is survived by his brother, Joseph; his sisters-in-law, Harriett and Diana; and many nieces and nephews, especially his niece Shelly, who spent time with “Uncle Bill” each day.

John will be cremated at Keller Mortuary Services in Lapel, Indiana. Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

Kelly J. (Butts) Loper, 57, of Hartford City, passed away on March 29, 2026, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.

She was born on September 6, 1968, in Adrian, Michigan, to Lorrie Butts and Karen (Rohr) Bennett.

Kelly was a graduate of Jay County High School. She dedicated nearly 20 years to working for McDonald’s, where she truly enjoyed seeing her regular customers and building connections within her community.

A devoted homebody, Kelly centered her life around her family—especially her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She loved going out to lunch with her family and shopping, always on the lookout for a “deal”. She took great pride in spoiling her grandchildren with her finds… whether they needed them or not.

Kelly is survived by her children, Randi Loper of Hartford City; Justin (Cheyenne) Loper of Hartford City; Kassandra Loper of Hartford City; Meygan (Ashton) Maloney of Hartford City; Hope (Dario) Maloney of Los Angeles, California; Paige (Kendrick) Lynn of Elwood; and Faith Maloney of Muncie; her sister, Lori (Chuck) Butts-Vogelbacher of Toledo, Ohio; and nine grandchildren whom she adored.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held at a later date.