Ruth E. Messer

Ruth Edna Chandler Messer a beloved mother, dedicated healthcare professional, and faithful Christian was the youngest daughter of the late Elmer and Annie Chandler. She was born on February 9, 1952, in Dancy, Mississippi.

Ruth's journey through life was marked by her determination to succeed despite any adversity. She graduated in 1970 from Northside High School in Memphis, Tennessee, where she distinguished herself as a student. During her time at Northside High, Ruth was actively involved in the ROTC program and was proud to be included as a member of the National Honors Society.

Ruth moved to Indianapolis after graduation where she pursued a career in nursing, a field where she could make a positive impact on others that also provided long term stability, which was important to her. She achieved her LPN certification in 1984 from IVY Tech, followed by a Bachelor’s in 1990 from Marion College. Ruth worked as a staff nurse within the Indianapolis area and continued her education earning a Master's in 2006 from Indiana Wesleyan College. Her commitment to excellence was recognized when she was awarded the title of Nurse Practitioner in 2007. She retired as a Surgical Nurse Practitioner in 2019 after 35 years of service in her field.

Ruth was a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses. Beyond her professional achievements, Ruth enjoyed cruising abroad to foreign lands, attending conferences with colleagues, socializing with close friends, and most importantly spending time with family whether it was lunch with her sisters, family reunion trips, or celebrating the milestones and achievements of her grandchildren.

Ruth's faith was the cornerstone of her life. From an early age, she professed her love for the Lord and was baptized in Christ. She found spiritual fellowship with family at New Hope Baptist Church before becoming a valued member at Zion Hope Baptist. She moved her family to Pike Township in the summer of ’84 and supported the growth of the newly constructed Greater Northwest Baptist Church before becoming a member and serving as an usher. Ruth's journey of faith continued at her final church home, Faith Bible Church of Indianapolis, where her unwavering devotion to God and tireless service as an usher will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Ruth Edna Chandler Messer passed away peacefully on Friday February 23, 2024, at the age of 72. She was preceded in death by her sisters Mattie Whitfield and Stella Mae Towne.

Ruth leaves behind a cherished legacy of love. She will be deeply missed by her four children: Stephen Messer (Trina), Patrick Garner (Charnette), Rachael Campbell (Scott), and Brian Messer; 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; as well as by her Brothers Mitchell Chandler, James Chandler (Lucy); Sisters Elmarie Neely, Jimmie Lee Hollingshead; beloved nieces and nephews; and extended family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May she rest in peace, her spirit forever uplifted in the presence of the Lord whom she loved and served faithfully.

A visitation for Ruth will be held Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W. 38th St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00 PM.