Diana L. Schilling

Diana Schilling, 87, of Beech Grove, passed away on November 22, 2023. She was born in Indianapolis on November 18th, to parents Carl and Verne (Boldrey) Mikesell. On January 29, 1972, she married John R. Schilling where they maintained the family home in Beech Grove, Indiana until her passing.

In her early years, Diana worked at RCA and Indiana Bell but later in life found her passion and love for children when she opened her own day care. After retiring her personal day care business, she volunteered her time at St. Elizabeth’s Day Care for Unwed Mothers eventually accepting a full-time position, where she remained for 6 years. With an unselfish passion for family, throughout the years Diana touched many children’s lives. Many of those she cared for remained in her life into adulthood.

Diana was a kind, caring woman who enjoyed crocheting, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and helping those in need. She assisted with many philanthropic associations, such as the March of Dimes, St. Elizabeth’s, and provided affordable day care for her grandchildren and many families in need.

Diana is survived by her husband John R. Schilling; children Roxane Leary, Roger Giffin, Kathi Yacconi, and John T. Schilling (Johnny); 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; siblings Dorothy Stone, Beverly Chadwick, James “Jimmy” Mikesell, and Chester Handlon.

Diana is preceded in death by her parents; her children Rod Giffin and Rian Giffin; grandchildren Wesley Giffin and Jason Giffin; and siblings Esther Kirchen, Mary Marlett, Donna Choung, Marvin Mikesell, Novella Marsh, Keith Mikesell, Melvin Mikesell, Donald Mikesell, Norman Mikesell, Kenny Mikesell, and Robert Handlon.

Visitation will be Wednesday, November 29, 2023, from 11AM-1PM at Flanner Buchanan Memorial Park, 9350 E. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN, 46229. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 1PM.

She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery.