Carol Louise Landis

Carol Louise Landis passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on September 21, 1948, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, she was the daughter of Paul Edgar Butz and Alma Louise Butz.

Carol grew up in Indianapolis, where she developed her lifelong passion for music as an accomplished pianist and vocalist. She began her higher education at Wittenberg University before transferring to Indiana University, where she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in English and was honored as a Phi Beta Kappa recipient. During her time at IU, she was a proud member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority and formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

Her diverse career path reflected her adaptability and dedication. As a young mother, she worked part-time at Peerless Electric, a family-owned business. She spent the longest portion of her career managing risk and insurance programs for both Methodist Hospital and St. Vincent Hospital. She also managed an office and laboratory at IUPUI, where much of the drug testing for international amateur athletes was conducted. Later in her career, she briefly returned to work alongside her husband at Marketrends, a marketing and communications firm he founded. Carol was also proud to have earned her Pharmacy Technician certification, demonstrating her commitment to learning throughout her life.

It was at Garrison, Jasper, Rose and Company advertising agency where Carol met and began dating the love of her life, Larry. They were married on September 28,1974, and shared 50 wonderful years together. Their union was blessed with their son, Chris. Carol's greatest joy later in life came from spending time with her three beloved granddaughters.

Carol was deeply involved in her granddaughters' lives, caring for each of them while their parents worked and introducing them to her love of music through Kindermusik classes. She was a devoted accompanist for her son Chris during his trumpet recitals and competitions, and nothing brought her more happiness than watching her granddaughters perform in musicals, concerts, and recitals.

A woman of deep faith, Carol was an active member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church, where she and Larry participated in the Christian Endeavors couples' group for several years. Her beautiful voice graced the church choir and as a member of New Song women's choir for almost 40 years. New Song was more than just a choir to Carol—it was a source of lifelong friendships and community that enriched her life immeasurably.

Carol's generous spirit extended beyond her church family. She volunteered regularly at the Crooked Creek Food Pantry and the low cost animal clinic, reflecting her love for cats and compassion for all creatures. She participated in various church activities, always seeking ways to serve others. Her personality was marked by her ability to find interest in and community from all aspects of her life—at church, work, and among neighbors. She was incredibly loyal and dedicated her life to caring for those around her.

Family traditions held special meaning for Carol. She cherished family trips to Pentwater, Michigan, with her extended family, family dinners with her grandchildren, and celebrating holidays together. She looked forward to Butz Day and other reunions with cousins, as well as family state park trips that created lasting memories.

Carol was known for her sharp wit and spirited debates—you never wondered what Carol thought about any topic of discussion. As a mother and wife, she seemed to effortlessly balanced her career, motherhood, and marriage, inspiring those around her with her grace and dedication. Her special talents included not only her vast musical abilities but also her caregiving nature and deep medical knowledge, particularly regarding the conditions and medications being taken of those close to her.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Paul Edgar and Alma Louise Butz, her brother, Bruce A. Butz and her niece, Susan K. Butz.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 50 years, Larry Seabrook Landis; her son, Christopher Seabrook Landis (Heather Ann); and her three cherished granddaughters, Lauren Elizabeth, Anna Louise, and Emily Seabrook Landis.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, followed by a celebration of Carol's life at 2:00 PM. Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes will officiate. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Carol's memory to: 

St. Luke's United Methodist Music Program (in the memo box, indicate the donation is for the Music Program)

IU Cancer Center

Crooked Creek Food Pantry

Carol's legacy of love, music, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her dedication to family, faith, and community will be remembered and cherished by all whose lives she touched.