Dr. Rebecca T. Markel

Dr. Rebecca Thomas Markel, 79, Shelbyville passed away at 1:15 a.m. Sunday, December 8, 2013, at Ashford Place Health Campus. Born February 1, 1934, in Brandywine Township, Shelby County, she was the daughter of Milton Headlee and Carris (Sutherland)Thomas, who preceded her in death, and was a member of Old Union United Methodist Church. Survivors include one brother, John Milton (Jean) Thomas, Shelbyville; nephew J.Mark (Karen) Thomas, Brownstown; and nieces Marsha (Bill) Oakley, Timonium, MD; Melinda Hatchett, Avon; Melanie Thomas, Shelbyville; and Michelle (Jason) Karmire, Boggstown; and several great nieces and nephews. Following graduation with honors from Fairland High School in 1952, she proceeded to obtain a diploma in nursing from Christ Hospital, Cincinnati, in 1956, plus three degrees from Indiana University (BSN, Ed, 1959; MSN 1972; EdD, 1986). In 1968, she joined the I.U. School of Nursing faculty, and from 1989 until her retirement in December, 1997, she served in the administrative position as Assistant Dean for Development. She was a life member of the I.U. Alumni Association, serving on the association’s Executive Committee, and a huge supporter and fan of I.U. Athletics, especially basketball. Additionally, she was a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, serving as Vice President, and was a charter member Board of Directors of the Joseph Boggs Society for Historical Preservation. She was involved with numerous university boards and committees, plus received multiple honors and awards for her nursing and educational accomplishments, including Distinguished Service Award from IUSON Alumni Association (1984); Maynard K. Hine Medal, highest honor for IUPUI Alumni Leadership (1979); and Emily Holmquist Lifetime Achievement in Nursing Award (1997). She also has achieved status as a Sagamore of the Wabash, awarded by Governor Frank O’Bannon. At Dr. Markel’s request, there will be no formal funeral service or calling, but only a private gravesite service following cremation. A celebration of life activity will be planned for a future date. Gifts in honor of Dr. Rebecca Markel may be made to I.U. Foundation/School of Nursing for the Grossman Markel Heritage Fund, 38N008255. Contributions should be mailed to I.U. Foundation, P.O. Box 663802, Indianapolis, In 46266, or you may go online at giveto iu.iu.edu.