Ellen Carmichael

Ellen Louise Carmichael, 86, of Carmel, Indiana passed away on October 25, 2024. She was born, October 3, 1938, in Lafayette, IN the daughter of Albert & Evelyn (Horlacher) Mahin. She married James S. Carmichael on June 30, 1963.

Ellen attended Indiana University and earned her master’s degree from the Indiana School of Music. During her time at IU, she performed and traveled abroad as the accompanist for The Singing Hoosiers. 

Following graduation, Ellen moved to Valparaiso, Indiana where she worked as a Music Teacher and Accompanist at several area high schools, including Morgan Township and Washington Township. 

Ellen loved music and playing piano. She spent many years as accompanist and music director with the Valparaiso High School Drama Club. While there, she co-wrote the musical Not A Baby Anymore. Her talents with the needle supported the program as well, resulting in stage décor and costumes. She was an active member of First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ and served on the Board as well as President of the IU School of Music Alumni Association for many years.

After her husband Jim’s retirement, they relocated to Carmel, Indiana and joined Zionsville Christian Church. Ellen continued to share her gift of music, performing at worship services and volunteering at The Palladium. But more than anything she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Ellen is survived by two children, Jennifer Carmichael (Douglas) Clark and Jeffrey (Marcia) Carmichael; four grandchildren, Jarod Clark, Abigail Carmichael, Christina Carmichael and Paige Clark—all share her love of music. 

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 11am at Zionsville Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed Zionsville Christian Church or The Palladium. Arrangements were entrusted to Flanner Buchanan–Carmel. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com.