Dr. Stephen L. Scott

Dr. Stephen L. “Steve” Scott, 84, of Carmel, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 20, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri. His parents were the late Dr. Robert O. and Ruth Scott. Steve was a proud graduate of Indiana University and the Indiana University School of Optometry.

A devoted optometrist, Steve founded one of the first optometry practices in Hancock County, Indiana, in 1968—now known as Hancock Eye Associates in Greenfield. In 1980, he was joined in practice by his wife, Dr. Elaine Scott. Together, they provided compassionate eye care to their community until Steve’s retirement in 2001.

Steve had a lifelong love of the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping, fishing, water skiing, and snow skiing. He cherished his years living on Cordry Lake in Brown County, Indiana, where he embraced lake life for more than three decades.

An accomplished pianist, Steve found joy in music throughout his life and continued playing piano until his final day. A passionate golfer, Steve found great joy on the course, especially during rounds shared with his son, Rusty.

Travel was another of Steve’s great passions. He participated in eye care mission trips to Africa and traveled extensively throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States. He especially treasured the many ski and golf trips shared with family and friends.

Steve was a member of both the American Optometric Association and the Indiana Optometric Association. He was also a former member of Greenfield Kiwanis Club, Hillview Country Club, and the Franklin Elks Lodge, and volunteered for many years as a Meals on Wheels driver.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, May 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, with a funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m.

Steve is survived by his wife, Elaine; his children, Douglas Scott, Allison Heather (Megan Guinn) Scott, and Rusty (Ruth Ann) Scott; and his beloved grandchildren, Cecilia, Marcelo, and Paola Scott, Elizabeth (Kasey) Juhasz, Evan, and Anna Scott. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara McGonigal. Steve was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. David Reed, and his sister, Ann Hedegard.