Lora Olive

Lora Olive, 63, of Indianapolis, passed away on May 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of storytelling, advocacy, artistry, and compassion for others.

Lora earned a degree in photojournalism from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, beginning a lifelong career serving her community through both journalism and nonprofit work.

Lora dedicated more than 20 years to nonprofit leadership and communications work throughout Indiana. She proudly served organizations including the Indiana Historical Society, Indiana 211, Deaf Community Foundation, and the Indiana Library Federation, where she helped strengthen communities through advocacy, communications, fundraising, and outreach.

For more than 15 years, Lora worked as a freelance photographer for The Indianapolis Star and NUVO Newsweekly, covering local news, politics, and major events throughout Indiana. An internationally published photographer, Lora captured bold, honest images that reflected the humanity of the people and moments she photographed. Her editorial work appeared in publications including the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Condé Nast, The Wall Street Journal, Mother Jones, and many others.

Lora also worked as a music and entertainment photographer, combining her love of photography and live music. Whether photographing internationally known performers, local musicians, or community festivals, she brought the same energy, curiosity, and appreciation to every performance, regardless of genre. She was equally passionate about photographing contemporary dance and worked with numerous dance companies, nonprofit organizations, and arts institutions throughout her career.

Outside of her work, Lora — known as Lori to her friends and family — truly loved life. She enjoyed antiquing with her husband, tending to her garden, and taking long walks through Broad Ripple Park and Newfields. She treasured long lunches filled with laughter and conversation with her aunts and cousins, and loved live music and theater, bingo, and line dancing. Above all, she cherished time with her family and especially adored her grandsons.

She is survived by her husband of more than 30 years, David R. Olive; her daughters, Baili Olive and Chasity Clouse; and her beloved grandsons, Val and Alex Harding.

Family and friends will gather for a celebration of life on May 22, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan – Broad Ripple. All who knew and loved Lora are welcome to attend.

She will be deeply missed.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations can be made to Dance Kaleidoscope - Indianapolis.