Dr. Lucille Beisner passed from the haven of her New Paris home on December 23, 2021, at the glorious age of almost 96 years, and has become a bright star in Heaven, peacefully reunited with her beloved husband of 68 years, Paul.
Lucille and Paul were married in 1947 at the former Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church. Their union cultivated rich humanities through their mutual appreciation of agriculture, art, science, and spirituality.
Together they raised two sons, Kent (Kendra) Beisner and Craig (Carolyn) Beisner, and one daughter, Karen. Seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren embody these legacies.
Graduating with Paul from Earlham College in 1947, Lucille earned her master’s degree from Miami University in Ohio and her doctorate from Ball State University.
Her illustrious career in education spanned over six decades and included serving as a college professor, a role in which she remained actively working until recently. As a respected published author, Lucille articulated her love of words, history, and art.
Dr. Beisner founded the RCS LOGOS program for Gifted and Talented students in 1983. She dedicated her many skills and deep commitment to serving the unique needs of gifted students until her retirement in 1999.
She imparted the intricacies and genius of gifted students nationally and internationally, advocating their innovation and creativity at educational conferences in Scotland, Germany, Sweden, Australia, Prague, United Kingdom, and Budapest.
Her avocation as church organist included over 40 years celebrating hymns and immaculate music for West Richmond Friends, where she and Paul were active members.
Lucille had been a steadfast adventurer and world traveler. In addition to her kind, sweet spirit, she was a risk taker and zealous about learning new concepts and ideologies. Lucille was the epitome of a profound critical and creative thinker, joining the ranks of Sappho, Epictetus, Rachel Carson, and James Joyce. She was an ace at problem solving and ingenious thinking. Lucille personified the ideals of an analytical, sophisticated, serene, polished, and respectful human being. She was a voracious reader. She was sublime. She was fun. She was exquisite. Her laughter was exuberant and joyful. She was a consummate seeker and holder of deep, radiant wisdom.
Proud of her Irish, Scottish, and American Indian heritage, Lucille cherished the beauty and intrigue of all cultures. She met life’s challenges with strength, tenacity, and joy. Lucille remained guided by her ethical moral compass and her pioneer spirit as she successfully embraced her rigorous impossible dreams and championed others to follow their own brave odysseys.
Hero is almost too small of a word for her. She will be missed every single second of every day. But, as one of her favorite Irish bands soothingly sings, “In a word, don’t shed a tear. I’m okay. I’m alright. Though I’ve gone from your life . . . just call my name, I’ll come back down and sit beside your feet tonight. Wherever I am you will always be more than just a memory. You said that it would, now everything will be alright.” (from “If I Ever Leave This World Alive” by Flogging Molly)
In honor of this grand and glorious lady, she would want you to start a long-awaited adventure; play music at full volume; serenely contemplate the complexities of science and the universe; dance and sing with wild abandon; raise a pint in salute to celebrating your soul; joyfully read an engaging book; amble peacefully through an enchanted forest; or cherish splendid, poignant art. Or make up your own imaginative, magical moment.
A private graveside service for Dr. Lucille Beisner will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Earlham Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Earlham College, Office of Alumni & Development for the Earlham College Fine Arts programs, Drawer 193, 801 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374; Beisner Family Memorial Fund, c/o Wayne County Foundation, 33 South 7th Street, Suite 1, Richmond, IN 47374; or any art museum of your choice.