Ardith (Emshwiller) DeBoard

It is with sorrow and yet profound rejoicing that we honor the life of Ardith L. DeBoard, who passed away on October 14, 2025, in Magnolia, TX, with her daughter holding her hand, giving praise to God, and singing hymns.

Ardith Louise Emshwiller was born April 11, 1935, in Hartford City, Indiana. She was the second to the oldest of 4 girls. When she was young, her family moved to Lebanon, IN, where she graduated from high school. She began her career as a key punch operator at Stewart Warner. Ardith and Claude DeBoard were married in Lebanon on July 11, 1959. In 1963, they moved their family to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Ardith was employed at a book distribution company, working her way up to a management position and remaining there until she retired after 30 years. Ardith and Claude were very active at Indianapolis First Church of the Nazarene where they made many lifelong friends. Together, they dedicated themselves to visiting those in hospitals, nursing homes, shut-ins, and others who needed comfort. They also planned frequent day trips for the senior adults of the church. Ardith’s life was focused on loving the Lord, loving Claude, and loving her family.

Ardith lived a life filled with the joy of the Lord. To Claude, her husband, she was a loyal & faithful partner in the raising of their blended family of three sons and one daughter, as they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. To her children she was patient, long-suffering, everything, all things. She was a confidante and best friend. To her grandchildren, she was warm and true, with tender care and a loving heart. She was a model of what it should look and sound like to be a child of God. Her faith never faltered. She had a humble spirit and made an eternal impact on the lives she touched. She embodied hope and renewal of the love of grandparents. She always gave praise to God for the many blessings. She was beautiful and loving. It was a true blessing to have her as our grandma. To her nieces, she was a precious soul who shined a beautiful light for Jesus. Ardith was a wonderful cook and baker, who would pass on her recipes. She was a prayer warrior. Her love was a sweet reflection of Jesus. To her friends, she was loving and giving. A special lady. A cherished, faithful friend. Closer than a sister. Uplifting and encouraging. Gracious hostess known for her hospitality.

It's hard to put into a few words what Ardith meant to everyone, but she will always be remembered for her huge loving heart for her family, friends, and those in need. She always welcomed everyone with a beautiful smile that warmed the heart. Her love for the Lord was an amazing blessing to witness. When she talked about Claude, the absolute love of her life, there was a twinkle in her eyes that could only be meant for her soulmate, her beloved, her husband.

Ardith loved cooking for large family gatherings, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Her home was always full of warmth, good food, and laughter. She enjoyed preparing her family’s favorite dishes and took pride in every meal. And, she was often heard to say, “We’ve had a lot of heartache in our lives, but so many more blessings. God is good, and He is faithful.”

Ardith and Claude shared more than 66 years together filled with love, laughter, and devotion. After his passing in August, it brings comfort knowing they are together again with their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ardith DeBoard is survived by her daughter Terri (Jim) Russell, and son Steve (Sharon) DeBoard, along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a community of friends and loved ones beyond measure. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Claude DeBoard, their two sons Michael DeBoard and Gary DeBoard, grandson Joseph Daniel DeBoard, great-grandson Alan Michael DeBoard, sisters Lois Emshwiller, Nelda Emshwiller, and Vonda Caudell.

Ardith’s life will be celebrated October 23, 2025, at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46229. Family and friends are invited to visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the funeral service to follow at 12:00 p.m. In place of flowers, please make a contribution to Shepherd Community Church.