Rebecca Russell

Rebecca Warner Lehman Russell, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and dedicated nurse, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, at the age of 79. Born in Goshen, Indiana on September 11, 1946, Rebecca was the cherished daughter of the late Kenneth and Genevieve (Warner) Lehman. She spent her formative years in Topeka, where she graduated as Salutatorian from Topeka High School in 1964. Following the example set by her father, Dr. Kenneth Lehman, and her commitment to helping others, Rebecca attended the Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in South Bend, from which she graduated in 1968. She later attained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and returned to earn a Master's Degree as a Nurse Practitioner from Indiana University in 1996.

Rebecca dedicated her life to the medical profession, serving with compassion and expertise at St. Francis Hospital in Indianapolis. Her legacy as a caregiver was matched only by her love for music and her dedication to her community. A longtime member of Southport United Methodist Church, she actively participated in the Chancel Choir and served as a former trustee. Her love of singing, beginning as a young girl in Topeka, extended beyond her church as she was a treasured member of the Indianapolis Women's Choir (1996-2014) and attended the prestigious Epworth Forest Choir School in the summers from 1963 to 2021. She cherished the friendships formed while singing with her community.

She was a world traveller, having visited The Great Pyramids in Egypt, walked the streets of Paris, cruised the Baltic Sea, rode elephants in India, and had countless adventures and trips to parks, landmarks and natural wonders all over the world, often in the company of her sisters and longtime friends. In retirement, Rebecca and her beloved long-haired dachshund Sammie volunteered their time with "Jack's Dogs," visiting schools, hospitals and nursing homes to provide comfort and emotional support.

She is survived by her beloved son, Nathaniel (Katie Coles) Russell; her sisters, Anne (Dan) Lind, Rev. Katharine (Charles) Walker, and Lucinda Lehman; and her honorary brother, Allen McCormack; grandsons Jasper and Gus Coles-Russell. Rebecca's warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A burial will take place at Eden Cemetery, Topeka, on Saturday, June 13, 2026,at 11:00AM with lunch to follow at Topeka Methodist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to support Epworth Forest Choir School.

Rebecca Russell's spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched, a testament to a life lived with grace, commitment, and profound love for her family and community.

Sheets & Childs Funeral Home has been entrusted with these arrangements.