Leslie Belton Ekberg

Leslie Shippey Belton Ekberg 90, Indianapolis, passed away peacefully and gracefully as the lady she was on February 12, 2013. Leslie was born February 27, 1922, in Pine Mountain, Georgia, the daughter of Lawrence and Gladys Shippey. She spent many happy years in Greenwood, Indiana, where she met and married the love of her life, Tom Belton, who preceded her in death. Leslie graduated from Butler University in 1943 with a degree in English. That same year she reigned as Butler University's first homecoming queen. She was a proud member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority where she established many lifelong friendships. She enjoyed a career in modeling, first in the L.S. Ayres Tearoom followed by photography modeling for print media. Being the "people person" she was, she took a genuine interest in all who touched her life; however, she saved her greatest love for her family. Leslie was a prolific reader, enjoyed music and loved her travels to and her "family" in New Mexico. She enjoyed driving through the Jemez Mountains, viewing the breathtaking sunsets on the Sandias, the azure blue sky and brilliant sunshine one can only see in the Southwest. Leslie was the consummate Southern lady. Proper is an adjective that comes to mind when reflecting on the way she conducted her life. She was compassionate and had a great love of her country. Her Christian faith was an integral part of her life which contributed to making her the beautiful person she was inside and out. Her sparkle, warmth and beautiful spirit will be greatly missed by all and she will be loved forever. Leslie was preceded in death by her dear daughter, Julie, her parents, and Al Ekberg, her husband of the last 22 years. She is survived by daughter, Debby, sister Ginny McIntire and nephews Larry (Sandy) and Jeff (Julie) Edwards. Visitation will take place February 27 at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, from 2 – 3:30 with a service to celebrate her 91st Birthday and her life at 3:30. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke's United Methodist Church or Butler University. You are invited to go to the Guest Book page to pass along your personal message or tell a story. Sincerely, -Your friends at Flanner and Buchanan