Paulette "Polly" G. Nicely

Born on February 20, 1942, Polly lived a life marked by extraordinary achievement, compassion, and service. She earned degrees in Zoology from the University of Colorado (1964), MS in Zoology from the University of Michigan (1967), and later received her M.D. from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1974. Her career began as a physiologist and an associate pharmaceutical chemist at Eli Lilly, which later sponsored her medical education. She went on to serve as a physician at Saint Vincent Hospital and became the physician at the Indiana Women’s Prison.

Polly’s passion for health and fitness extended far beyond the clinic. She chaired Indiana Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Medicine, served on the Board of Directors for the National Institute for Fitness and Sport, and was part of the medical team for the Pan American Games. She was also a member of the Indianapolis Zoo board where her passion for animals was evident. She was honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash, one of Indiana’s highest civilian awards.

Her adventurous spirit led her to run in the 1996 Olympic Torch Relay and hike to Everest Base Camp in 1981 as part of a medical research expedition team. She was a 19-time Golf Champion at Meridian Hills Country Club and the first woman chairman of the 131-year-old YMCA Board.

Polly also dedicated herself to youth and education, serving on the Board of Directors for Area Youth Ministry for Education.

She is survived by her loving daughters Beth O'Toole (Kevin) and Karen Luedtke (Brian); grandchildren Ian, Paul, Abby, and Audrey O'Toole, Kate Hass (Mike), and Hannah Luedtke; great-grandsons James and William Hass; and niece and nephews: Steve Croell (Jean), Amy Smith (Dave), Chris Croell (Karen), Mike Croell (Susie), and Father Benedict Croell.

Polly was preceded in death by her beloved husband Wayne Nicely and her sister Patricia Croell.

Her legacy of courage, intellect, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Leppert Mortuary & Crematory Services, located at 740 East 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240, on October 22, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Memorial service will take place at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46260, on October 23, 2025, at 11:00 am. Polly will be laid to rest at Crown Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Indiana United Methodist Children’s Home: 9333 North Meridian Street, Suite 222, Indianapolis, IN 46260. Phone: 317-775-0606.