Fr. Stephen T. Jarrell, 79, died August 21, 2026. Born May 4, 1947, Fr. Steve is remembered with deep gratitude for a life of devoted priestly service, offered with thoughtful care and a selfless spirit. A beloved presence to many, Fr. Steve’s ministry was marked by steady faith, reverence, and an inspirational commitment to the people and communities entrusted to him.
Fr. Steve’s years of ministry reflected a consistent dedication to worship, pastoral care, and the daily work of building up the Church. At his first assignment in1973, Fr. Steve served as associate pastor at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Indianapolis. In 1976, he became director of the Office of Worship. In 1978, Fr. Steve was assigned with residence at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Indianapolis. In 1982, he served as part-time associate pastor at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Indianapolis, while continuing as director of the Office of Worship, with residence at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Indianapolis.
In 1993, Fr. Steve became the founding pastor of SS. Francis and Clare of Assisi, Greenwood, and in 1999 was reappointed pastor there. In 2003, Fr. Steve became pastor of St. Paul the Apostle, Greencastle; priest moderator at St. Mary-of-the-Woods, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, and St. Leonard of Port Maurice, West Terre Haute; and chaplain at DePauw University and Putnamville Correctional Facility. In 2005, Fr. Steve became pastor of Annunciation, Brazil while continuing all other ongoing pastoral duties. In 2010, Fr. Steve became pastor of Christ the King, Indianapolis. Through each assignment, Fr. Steve carried a quiet constancy—one that made others feel seen, supported, and strengthened.
Beyond parish and chaplaincy responsibilities, Fr. Steve found enjoyment in cycling, a simple pursuit that reflected the same steady perseverance that shaped so much of his life and service.
Fr. Steve was preceded in death by father, Noel W. Jarrell, Sr.; mother, Barbara (Wagner) Jarrell; brothers, Noel W. Jarrell, Jr. and Mark Jarrell; and infant sister, Cynthia Jarrell. Fr. Steve is survived by sister-in-law, Sandra Jarrell; niece, Charity Wray (John); great nephew, Matthew Jarrell and a host of grateful parishioners throughout ArchIndy.
Visitation will be held at Feeney-Hornak Keystone Mortuary, 2126 East 71st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46220, on September 2, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm. A Vigil will follow at Feeney-Hornak Keystone Mortuary on September 2, 2026, beginning at 6:30 pm. Visitation will also be held at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5884 Crittenden Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220, on September 3, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. A Committal Service will take place at Dale Cemetery, 801 N Gregg Rd, Connersville, IN 47331, on September 3, 2026, at 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, 3001 E. 30th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46218.
“Until we meet again, may God hold Fr. Steve in the hollow of His hand...”
Online condolences available at: www.feeneyhornakkeystone.com
