years (having belonged to St. Rita's Catholic) but in the 70s briefly explored Kingsley Terrace Church of Christ. She did not belong to any one church in her later life but took pride in her continued pursuit for studying the 'Good Book'. She was very opinionated about Religious education! Some of Ethel's fondest memories (though hardest times) were during the family's time on Highland Place. She indicates that sometime during her early twenty's she married a neighborhood fella called 'Pal Tillis'. She always wanted a family of her own so from her and Pal's union a girl child born but did not survive. Ethel grieved deeply for her baby girl and the children she would never have. Sadly she and Pal divorced. Ultimately because she was unable to have her own children so became the best 'Aunt' her niece and nephews (and later greats) could ever have. She selflessly helped pay tuition for the best education available at St. Rita's and later Cathedral High for her three nephews (David, Donald, Richard) and niece (Jeanette) and always gave the best and most thoughtful Christmas and birthday gifts. In December 1956, Ethel joined the ranks of the Federal Government by securing a position at the U.S. Army Finance Center in Indianapolis (Fort Ben Harrison). She resigned in 1960 after passing the examination for the U.S. Postal Service where she worked from 1960 to her retirement in December 1986. Ethel spent her life caring for first one family member than another. She loved her family deeply and never complained but simply did what she did out of love. That was her way. She had no qualms about helping others and often did so. She said many a times that 'you can't take it with you' or 'it's only money'. She was quick to ask, 'is there anything I can do for you'? She is proceeded in death by her parents: Kattie and Emmett White, her sisters: Vivian L. (White) Stigger, Mattie (White) Kirby and Mary L. White and Brothers Herman White and Marion Lee White, niece Jeanette White, nephews: David and Richard White. She is survived by her nephew, Donald, her great nieces, Kanvass, Sydney, Michelle and Bonita. Great nephews: Larry and Donald Jr. and a host of other great great nieces and nephews. Ethel didn't believe that she herself was a remarkable woman, but those that took the time to know her knew differently. She tried to come across as gruff and tough but in reality she had the biggest heart ever, the sharpest of sharp minds and dry wit. In 2017 after the death of her younger sister Pruty, she found herself alone and for the first time since she was a child she was without someone to take care of. Ethel proclaimed that she was more than ready to be called home. June 2018 she finally got the call. Rest in Heaven Rah-Rah. Until we meet again. A graveside service will be held for Ethel on Thursday, June 21, 2018 in Crown Hill Cemetery starting at 1:00 p.m.
Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery
Indianapolis, IN 46208
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