March 6, 1943 – October 11, 2024
Mary Eileen Champagne, 81, Carmel, passed October 11, 2024. She was born March 6, 1943, in Atchison, Kansas, the daughter of James Farrell and Margaret Mary (Callahan). Her family moved to San Diego, Calif., shortly after her birth. Eileen was the last remaining sibling, having been preceded in death by her parents; brothers, James, David, John, Charles, and Tom; and her sister, Carol Burke Couture.
Survivors include her husband of 58 years, Kent Champagne; daughters Joan Champagne, Jessica Dumas (Matt), and Danielle Smith (Jeff). She was also preceded in death by her oldest daughter, Christine Champagne.
A prominent educator, she was the founding principal of the George Washington Community High School in Indianapolis. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of San Diego College for Women, a master’s degree in special education from Butler University, and completed Butler’s EPPSP principal’s certification program. In retirement, she was an active member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (OLMC) Catholic Church of Carmel, including its Merciful HELP Center. She also volunteered at the St. Vincent Carmel Hospital Women’s Health Center.
Her family and friends will remember her for her commitment to helping others and her sharp and infectious sense of humor. She was an excellent cook who loved entertaining or bringing home cooked meals to loved ones. She was a benevolent “Aunt Princess” to many nieces and nephews, and a doting “Granny” to her three grandchildren, Nathan Dumas, Jack Dumas, and Genevieve Smith.
Friends and family will gather at 9 a.m. Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oak Ridge Road, Carmel, where the Mass of Christian burial will be conducted at 11 a.m.
Burial will follow in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, 9001 N. Haverstick Road, Indianapolis.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the OLMC Merciful HELP Center,1045 W. 146th St., Suite A, Carmel, IN 46032. Envelopes will be available at the service.
Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.
Condolences: bussellfamlyfunerals.com
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