Joan Ellen Shock

Joan Ellen Shock, born on March 22, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana, gracefully walked the earth for nearly a century and left a kaleidoscope of memories in her wake. She transitioned to eternal rest on February 20, 2025, in Greenwood, Indiana, surrounded by the warmth and affection of her loving family.

Joan was the epitome of dedication and wisdom, serving as a devoted librarian at the Indianapolis Public Library for two decades. Her nurturing spirit echoed through the pages of countless stories, instilling a love for reading in generations of children and adults alike. Through her work, she created a sanctuary of knowledge, mentoring young minds eager to explore the world through books.

Her educational beginnings at Sacred Heart Catholic School set the foundation for a life dedicated to service and community. Joan was not only a woman of knowledge but also of profound faith, a proud member of St. Roch Catholic Church, where she found solace and strength throughout her life. There, she formed connections with fellow parishioners, sharing in life's joys and sorrows, building a community grounded in compassion and love.

Love illuminated Joan’s life, particularly when she married Carl R. Shock on January 22, 1951, at St. Catherine's Catholic Church. Together they nurtured a bond that withstood the test of time, a love story woven with shared laughter, dreams, and quiet moments of togetherness.

Beyond her professional and marital life, Joan’s creativity flourished in her hobbies. Joan had a great love for cooking and baking, working in her garden. She devoted her free time to knitting, sewing, and embroidery, each stitch a reflection of her nurturing nature and artistic flair. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Additionally, she generously volunteered at the Indiana State Museum, enriching the lives of many with her volunteer work and passion for the arts. Her legacy as a creator and a caregiver will forever resonate within her family which she cherished.

Joan is survived by her children; Cynthia (Daniel) Meier, Patrick (Lisa) Shock and Thomas (Sharon) Shock, grandchildren; Paul (Brandi Williams) Moriarty, Erin (Keenyn) Smith, Sophia (Blake) Wyrick, Sid (Emma Moore) Shock, Lydia Shock, Dean Shock, Jonathan Meier and Molly Meier, great-grandchildren; Elijah, Dylan, Kaylin, Elaina, Norah, Stori, and Ila Grace, sisters Patricia McKeon, Therese Bisesi, sister-in-law Shirley Melvin. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 72 years Carl Shock, parents John and Esther Hayden Clark, brother Donald Clark, sisters Margaret McIntosh and Kathleen Austin.

A visitation to celebrate Joan’s remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at St. Roch Catholic Church, 3600 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, IN 46227 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. 

Services entrusted to O'Riley-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Joan's honor can be made to St. Roch Catholic Church. Envelopes will be provided at the church.

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

Joan Ellen Shock's life was a tapestry of love, devotion, and service—binding together the threads of family, community, and faith. Her spirit will continue to resonate through the lives of all who were privileged to know her. As we bid farewell to a beautiful soul, we find comfort in her enduring legacy—one of kindness, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved.