Carmen Elaine Wesley

In Loving Memory of Carmen Elaine Wesley April 6, 1950 – December 30, 2024

Carmen Elaine Wesley, of Indianapolis, IN, who peacefully departed this life on December 30, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Carmen was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt, and friend.

Born on April 6, 1950, to Jack O. Gardner and Evelyn V. (Stinson) Gardner, Carmen was the youngest of four children and affectionately known as the baby of the family. She brought joy and light to all who knew her.

In her early years, Carmen, along with her sister and two brothers, embraced the life of a military family. As “military brats,” they moved from base to base with their parents, Morna and Master Sergeant Jack, who served with dedication in the United States Air Force. Eventually, the family settled back in Brazil, Indiana, a place Carmen always called home, no matter where life took her.

Carmen had a love for horses. Like her brother Jerry, she loved to ride them and enjoyed spending time at the stables. Carmen’s passion for education led her to attend California State University – Dominguez Hills and Indiana State University, where she earned her master’s degree. She developed a love for Sociology and Criminology. She dedicated over 20 years of her career to teaching these subjects to college students at various institutions, including IUPUI and Indiana Wesleyan University. Her commitment to education and her students was unwavering, and she was known for her vibrant personality, warmth, and tenacity.

Her greatest pride, however, was her family. Carmen held her family close to her heart, cherishing them deeply. She is survived by her sons, Damien LeJohn (Destiny) and Robert (Christopher) Wesley; her grandsons, Damien Wesley, Andreas LeJohn, Jalen LeJohn and Jorden LeJohn; and her great-grandson, Zayn LeJohn. She also leaves behind her siblings, John Gardner (Phyllis) and Jacqueline Gardner; her nephews, David Goggins, Trunnis Goggins, Swins Fontenelle and Phillip Fontenelle.

Carmen was preceded in death by her parents, Jack O. and Evelyn V. (Stinson) Gardner; her brother, Jerry Gardner; her granddaughter, Jazmine LeJohn and her beloved husband, Robert Wesley.

Carmen will forever remain in our hearts. She will be deeply missed. Though she is no longer with us, the memories of her presence will continue to bring comfort and peace to those who loved her. 

A family gathering will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 12:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park North, 2706 Kessler Blvd W Dr., Indianapolis, IN. Family and friends are invited to come together and honor her memory. Please share an online condolence or memory of Carmen at www.flannerbuchanan.com