John Merrill Stainbrook

John Merrill Stainbrook, 77, of Greenwood, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and faithful servant of Jesus, John's life was a testament to enduring love, unwavering faith, and boundless generosity.

Born on June 15, 1948, in Indianapolis to Merrill and Betty Stainbrook, John grew up in the city he would always call home. He graduated from Manual High School in 1966 and continued his education at Milligan College in Tennessee and at IUPUI. His academic journey prepared him for a career marked with integrity, leadership, and excellence.

In 1971, John began his professional path in the banking industry at Merchants National Bank. His dedication and vision later led him to Union Federal Bank, where he rose through the ranks to become founder, president, and CEO of Union Acceptance Corporation, a subsidiary of Union Federal. Colleagues and clients alike respected his work ethic, wisdom, and steady commitment to excellence.

John also answered the call to service for his country. Drafted into the United States Army, he served honorably during the Vietnam War where he earned a Purple Heart.

At the center of everything John cherished his beloved wife, Melinda. Their love story began at the age of 14 and blossomed into a lifelong partnership rooted in faith. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and spiritual strength.

John is survived by Melinda; their son J.C. (Renee) Stainbrook; their daughter Stephanie (Donnie) Dodson; grandchildren Danae, Ronnae, Destiny, Zaria, Jada, Adler, Cambell, and London; his brothers, Mike and Ron, and sister Mary Kirkpatrick. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill Stainbrook and Betty Simpson, and his in-laws James and Louise Beal.

John was as known as "Poppy" to those who loved him most. He had a rare gift for seeing the good in everyone. An eternal optimist, he offered encouragement, second chances, and gentle guidance that pointed others toward the love of Jesus. His faith was not only something he professed - it was how he lived. John loved Jesus with his whole heart, and his life radiated Christ's love through compassion, forgiveness, mentorship, and joy.

He will be remembered for his optimism, generosity, and the light he carried into every room. His legacy endures not only through the family he adored but also through the countless lives he touched with grace.

A memorial in John's honor will be held at Crown Hill Cemetery at Gothic Chapel on Thursday, September 18 with a visitation from 10:30-1:30 and service at 1:30. The burial will follow immediately at Crown Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request that donations be made to NEADS World Class Service Dogs. Contributions can be made online at http://www.neads.org.

May the memory of John Merrill Stainbrook bring comfort to all who knew him, and may we honor his life by carrying forward the faith, hope, and love he so freely shared.

2 Timothy 4:7-8

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."