Betty Jeane LeClare

Betty Jeane LeClare (née McKinley), aged 98, born January 31, 1927, passed away on February 19, 2025. Betty is survived by her loving husband of nearly 71 years, Don LeClare; her sister Martha "Marty" Harding; her children Diane Grotjohn, Robert (Amy) LeClare, Thomas (Melissa) LeClare, and Carol (Kevin) Darling, 3 grandsons, 5 granddaughters, and 2 great grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elizabeth and Orman McKinley; her sister, Patricia Wheaton; and her brother, Orman "Mac" McKinley, Jr.

Betty was an alumna and English teacher at Broad Ripple High School and furthered her education at Indiana University, earning a bachelor's degree in English Literature. She also obtained a master's degree in English Literature from Butler University. Betty's professional life was marked by her deep commitment to community service; she was a pioneer volunteer at the Marion County's Crisis & Suicide Prevention Service and served as the President of the Information and Referral Network. Her leadership continued as the President of the Phoenix Theater Board of Directors. Alongside her husband, she co-owned the O. O. McKinley Co.

Betty's greatest love was being a mom. She was also an avid reader and passionate gardener and an active member of the Trailing Arbutis Garden Club. Her love for storytelling was evident in her numerous short stories and articles about travel and local events, which graced various publications. Betty's warmth, intelligence, and compassion touched many lives, and her legacy will live on through her family and the countless lives she touched.

Please join the family for a celebration of life open house on Saturday, March 1 from 12 pm to 3 pm at the Capri Italian Restaurant, 2602 Ruth Dr., Indianapolis, one of Betty's favorites.