Joan Smerdel Marshall

Joan Smerdel Marshall 87, Irvington, Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was a beloved daughter born on February 10, 1938 to Slovenian parents, Josephine (Zupancic) and Felix Smerdel in Haughville, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Joan spent her early years attending Holy Trinity Catholic School and Church where she formed the foundation of her lifelong faith. She was a proud 1955 graduate of St Mary's Academy. Pursuing a calling in healthcare, she attended Marian College and St Vincent's Nursing School, graduating in 1959 as a Registered Nurse, embodying the compassion of care that defined her character.

On April 27, 1968, Joan married John H. Marshall whom she met through the Young Catholic Adults. They settled in Irvington, becoming lifelong parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. They shared nearly four decades of a beautiful life centered on family and faith until John's passing in 2005.

Joan took immense pride in her Slovenian heritage ensuring the traditions remained a vibrant part of her family's life. She was proud of her children and grandchildren who embraced this legacy with her.

Joan's life was a beautiful tapestry of deep faith, devotion, commitment and service. She had a talented artistic spirit, finding joy in the quiet precision of painting, sewing, rug hooking and many other crafts. She possessed a deep love for animals and nature, especially her beloved Yorkie, Champ and the many hummingbirds that would visit her feeders. She took great pleasure in watching all sports, particularly Notre Dame Football.

Above all, Joan was the heartbeat of her family. She will be remembered for her gentle kindness, creative spirit and compassionate love for her family. She will be cherished in our hearts forever.

She is survived by her three children, John (Tammy) Marshall, Jean (Matthew) Burrell and Daniel (Candy) Marshall and five grandchildren; Josephine and Jacob Marshall, Samuel and Ava Burrell and Kaitlin Gigli.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Tues., Jan. 6th from 4-7 PM at Oakley-Hammond Funeral Home (5342 E. Washington St). Brief visitation will be held Wed., Jan. 7th at 10 AM with Mass beginning at 11 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church (5333 E. Washington St). Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, family requests memorial contributions to be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and School or The Slovenian National Home of Indianapolis.