Thalia Hosea Hanna, 76, of Indianapolis, passed away March 12, 2015. She was born to Max and Betty (Brown) Hosea in Indianapolis, IN on November 15, 1938. She was a graduate of Shortridge High School. Thalia received a BS and MS Degree from Butler University.
She was proud to be an educator/administrator for IPS and the first Desegregation Director and Title 1 Coordinator for Perry Township Schools. Her career also included several speaking engagements to encourage people to reach their goals and impact lives through positive interactions. She was able to influence students’ and co-workers’ lives for 42 years and in doing so was awarded the State of Indiana Sagamores of the Wabash as well as several national and local awards including the Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., 2014 Perry Pioneers Award.
Her lifelong love of education and encouragement continued into retirement when she became an elder at Bethany Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Florida. There she counseled and encouraged young adults by leading small groups and helping them to grow and know of God’s love.
Throughout her life she participated and belonged to many organizations. She was proud to be in the DAR, a member of Delta Gamma and Psi Iota Xi, and Lions Club. The Red Hat Society and Women’s Christian Association were other organizations in which she belonged.
Her love of God and family always came first. She is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, William Hanna of Speedway; daughter, Becky (Hanna) Arkins; son-in-law Thomas Arkins; and grandchildren Chase and Kira.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Max and Betty Hosea; sister, Patia Colver (Hosea); and grandson, Benjamin.
Friends and family may visit from 1:00-2:30 on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at Community Church at Murphy’s Landing, 7401 S. Harding St., Indianapolis, IN 46217. The memorial service will take place immediately afterwards beginning at 2:30.
The inurnment will be at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Greenwood, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to the Perry Township Education Foundation.
Suzann Gray says
Many wonderful memories of Becky and I doing activities with Thalia. We had lots of fun playing games, eating meals together, and just hanging out with the Hanna’s. My prayers for Becky and the whole family.
Chasity says
Becky I am so sorry for your loss. She was always so happy and funny! Due to my illness I’m not able to make the services but please know your in my thought and prayers.
Love
Chasity
Dianna Stewart says
My very deepest sympathy to the Hanna Family. Thalia was a very dear friend and wonderful person who inspired us all. She was one of God’s special jewels who spread goodness and hope to everyone she met! I treasured our friendship.
Jane Pollard says
Becky – I have many fond memories of your mom from her days in Perry Township! You share many of her wonderful qualities such as leadership, patience, professionalism, and kindness. She will live on through you! I will be praying for your entire family as you say goodbye to her on earth. Much Love – Jane
Paula Swengel says
Thalia Hanna was quite a lady! She was an organizer of many workshops and encouraged Rick and me to present the I CAN workshop to staff. We had many fun conversations during those times. So sorry for your loss.
Ruth Warnick says
Thalia became my BFF We did a LOT of
shopping. We had so
many evening dinners
together, and then played games/cards.
Of course Thalia always won the games
that required knowledge of anything. She and Clyde competed, as to who would win.
Laughter was always
Kathy Arkins says
Dear Bill,Becky,Tom,Chase, &
Kira,
My heart breaks for all of you. Thalia was not just a good friend she was family. We shared many long talks and great memories. She will be missed but always remembered.
Love to all of you
Kathy (Mom A.-Grammy)
Kimberly Johnson says
I had the honor of meeting Thaila in 1987 when she hired me into Perry Township as a bus monitor/aide. She was very active in the northern community, always caring for our students and staff. She was such a wonderful person and will be sadly missed, My prayers are with you and your family.
Kimberly Johnson
Joan Stahl says
Even though Thalia’s passing brought much sorrow into the lives of those of us who loved her, I feel certain that it brought her much joy and her spirit is renewed. May the good times we all shared together ease the pain and sorrow we feel in the days to come.
Love, “Aunt” Joan
Angela Swails says
Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. May your wonderful memories comfort you.
Bobby and Ruth Hendricks says
You will be in our hearts forever. I will always remember the hours that we spent talking and looking through picture albums together. We love you with all m of our hearts.
Audrey Beasley says
Becky, so sorry for the loss of your mom. I enjoyed working with her in Perry and you at CY. Sympathy for you, your father, and the rest of your family. Keep the beautiful memories foremost in your thoughts.