Wilma L. Moore

Wilma L Moore of Indianapolis passed from this life on April 18, 2018. Wilma, the daughter of William Joseph and Tessie Arlene Gibbs was born in Indianapolis, IN on March 21, 1951. Educated in local schools, she graduated from Crispus Attucks High School class of 1969. She received her Bachelors in sociology (1973) and a Masters in Library and Information Science (1974) from Indiana University.

She was reared with her six siblings Etta M., Patricia A., William E., Sharon D., Angela M., and Theresa A.

Wilma spent her professional career working in libraries. She worked at Indiana University Libraries, Indianapolis Public Library, and retired after 30 years from the Indiana Historical Society.

In 2016, American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) awarded Wilma an Award of Merit. Wilma was nominated by people who call her a "trailblazer" and "the go-to source" for African-American history, it is clear her legacy will continue to benefit and instruct generations to come. About the award and her career Wilma said "I have spent the past 30 years doing work that I thoroughly enjoy--toiling in the Indiana history vineyard helping others find material for their storyboards," and "I am always surprised by special thank you notes from patrons or when authors acknowledge me in their books. This award is a special bonus. I am humbled and grateful."

In 2017, she received the Eli Lilly Lifetime Achievement Award for her extraordinary contributions over an extended period of time to the field of history.

Other awards/recognitions/activities:

1997 recipient of the Indianapolis YWCA's Phyllis Wheatley Award

2003 Culture Advocate Award from the African Unity Festival

2007 the Inaugural Jasmine Robinson Pioneer Award (Wabash College)

2015 recognized for contributions for the 120th celebration of the Indianapolis Recorder

2003 Cover of Indianapolis Woman Magazine - (February)

1986-2007 Editor of Black History News and Notes

2007-2017 Contributing editor of Traces of Indiana and Midwestern History

Over the years, Wilma collaborated on many projects, helped researchers, gave presentations, processed collections, served on countless committees, and so many other professional tasks. She was a trusted source, gifted storyteller and valued colleague. She spent countless hours helping thousands find the information they needed and guiding them with their research.

Wilma was a long time member of Eastern Star Church. She had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and loved spending time in His word. Wilma enjoyed quality time with her family, especially her ten grandchildren. Wilma loved reading, learning, educating, and recounting history.

Her father and mother preceded her in death. Wilma is survived by her husband, Larry D. Moore, her children, Johari Miller (Walter) Wilson, Jamila Miller (Lemuel) Mamuya, and step-children LaShawn (Lakeithan) Bartlett and Mark (Princess) Moore and grandchildren Austin, Aaron, Nia, Noela, Jazamine, Chandler, Nolan, Nadia, Lundon, and Nevan and a host of relatives too numerous to count."Celebration of Life" service will be held at Eastern Star Church, 5750 E 30th St. at 11:00am on Friday, April 27, 2018 and visitation at 9:00am.