Carla Lee Stidham

RICHMOND, Ind. – Carla Lee Stidham, age 82, of Richmond, Indiana, passed away Sunday, May 12, 2024, at Reid Health, surrounded by her family. Born July 4, 1941, in Richmond, Indiana, to Dr. Frank and Marcella Wimmer Coble, Carla graduated from Richmond High School in 1959, received her Bachelor’s degree from Ball State University, and after being away for 30 years, moved back to Richmond in 1994. She was a teacher and stayed very active in the community as a member and strong supporter of the Boys and Girls Club. She formed the musical group “The Sweet Sounds of Starr Valley” and taught adults and children how to play the dulcimer. Carla began the group in 2008 and they continue to play today. She was one of the first board members for Every Child Can Read, serving for 10 years. Carla created the “Christmas Shop” for the Boys and Girls Club, where members can earn Santa Bucks and redeem them for presents for their families at no cost. She also started an etiquette program at the Boys and Girls Club. Carla was a member of Central United Methodist Church. At the age of 59, she went skydiving, definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Survivors include her husband of 61 years, David Stidham, to whom she was married May 11, 1963; children, Frank (Susan) Stidham, Sharon (Greg) Orbash, and Anne Stidham; grandchildren, Caleb Stidham, Kenly (Connor) Malone, Michael (Kate Jones) Orbash, Tom Orbash, and Annie Orbash; sister, Coleen Coble; nieces; nephews; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Claire Ann Coble Milligan; and brother, Ron Coble. Memorial visitation for Carla Lee Stidham will be held on June 9, 2024, from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. at Friends Fellowship Community in the Community Room. Memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. Arrangements are being handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. Memorial contributions may be made to: Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County, 1717 South L Street, Richmond, IN 47374 or Every Child Can Read Inc., 855 North 12th Street, Richmond, IN 47374. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Carla Lee Stidham

July 4, 1941 - May 12, 2024