Linda Carol Zappia

Linda Carol Zappia, a beacon of dedication, leadership, and familial devotion, passed away on April 18, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on January 8, 1947, also in Indianapolis, she was raised in Indianapolis and later moved to her beloved community of Carmel, Indiana. Linda’s life was a testament to perseverance, grace, and an unwavering commitment to those around her.

Linda’s early years were deeply rooted in the nurturing embrace of the Nativity Catholic Church Parish, where she cultivated a spiritual foundation that would guide her throughout her life. An alumna of Scecina Memorial High School and Butler University, she carried the values of education and faith forward into her exceptional career and personal undertakings.

Her professional journey stands as an inspiring narrative of ascent through diligence and acumen. Beginning humbly as a teller at Merchants National Bank & Trust Company, she rapidly progressed to the esteemed role of vice president. Her talents and leadership saw her subsequent transition to Huntington National Bank, where she held the position of regional credit administrator before rising to executive vice president. Throughout the 1980s, Linda proudly held the distinction of being the most senior woman bank executive in the Indianapolis area, a remarkable achievement reflecting her trailblazing spirit in an era when women were often underrepresented in high-level financial roles.

Beyond her banking career, Linda’s influence extended profoundly into civic service. She served with honor on the boards of the Hoosier Girl Scout Capital Campaign,  Indiana Statewide Certified Development Corporation, and the Indiana Business Community Credit Corporation, where her expertise and guidance helped shape regional economic growth and development. Additionally, her leadership was vital as a board member of the Villages of Indiana Inc and the Indiana Health Facility Financing Authority, highlighting her dedication to both community welfare and healthcare advancement.

Linda’s spirit was not solely defined by her professional achievements but was deeply enriched by her personal passions and community involvement. She was a devoted member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, where her faith continued to shine. Her love for the outdoors found expression in her active participation with the Indianapolis Hiking Club, embracing nature’s beauty with enthusiasm and vigor.

Above all, family was the cornerstone of Linda’s world. She is mourned and cherished by her beloved sisters, Irma (Tom) McKeand and Laura Schreck; her devoted nieces, Christa (David) Smith and Shannon (Jeremy) McClard; and her beloved great nieces and nephew, Nora, Dominic, and Layla. Their lives were touched by Linda’s warmth, generosity, and steadfast support. She was preceded in death by her dear parents, Dominic and Dorothy (Kattau) Zappia, and her brother-in-law, Gary Schreck, whose memories remain ever present in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Linda’s final moments in the city of her birth brought to a close a chapter marked by remarkable accomplishments, unwavering faith, and profound familial love. The community of Indianapolis, and indeed all who were fortunate enough to know her, are left with a legacy of strength, kindness, and an enduring example of what it means to lead a life of purpose.

To honor her memory, a visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, located at 6107 S East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227.  A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating her life will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Nativity Catholic Church, 7225 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46239.  Burial will follow at 1:00 PM at Forest Lawn Memory Garden.

In lieu of flower memorials in Linda’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org/indiana or Wish for our Heroes, https://www.wishforourheroes.org/donate/ 

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

Linda’s final moments brought to a close a chapter marked by remarkable accomplishments, unwavering faith, and profound family life. The community of Carmel, and indeed all who were fortunate enough to know her, are left with a legacy of strength, kindness, and an enduring example of what it means to lead a life of purpose.