Alice Florence Fritts-Harrell

Mrs. Alice Florence (Fritts) Harrell, age 86, Muncie, died peacefully in her home on February 21, 2018, in the company of her loving family and dedicated friends. Alice is survived by her children, Neil (Connie), Bruce (Kathy), Beth (Ben) Heesen, Eric (Michelle), Chad (Rebecca), Clare (Chris) Arena, Van (Cara): and her grandchildren, Justin Harrell, Dr. Anne Harrell, Matt Reggin, Megan (Caleb) Imes, Lindsey Harrell, Wesley Harrell, Evey Harrell, Dr. Christopher (Jenny) Arena, Caralynn Arena, Charlene Arena, Georgia Harrell, Lily Harrell: and great-grandson, Mason Reggin. She was preceded in death by parents, Clement A. and Florence M. (Miller) Fritts and former husband, Ralph Van Harrell Jr. Alice was born on Friday, December 11, 1931, in St. Johns, Indiana. She graduated from Ball State University in 1953 with a degree in education. After graduating, Alice was one of the original teachers at West View Elementary. She also taught children with Downs-syndrome in Bartow, Florida. After taking time away from teaching to raise seven children, Alice returned to Ball State University in 1978 to complete her Masters in education. She worked as a traveling art teacher at several Munci...[more]

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lementary schools. In 1980, South View Elementary School opened and Alice was their original art teacher until her retirement in 2001. Throughout her teaching career Alice inspired the love of art in many children with her gentle, disciplined, inclusive teaching style. In 1996 she was honored by Who's Who Among American Teachers, selected by her students as a teacher "who made a difference in their life". Alice was an accomplished artist and often painted wedding bouquets for family and friends. She was a witty storyteller who loved gardening and who was passionate about sharing her life experiences with others. She was an active and dedicated member of St. Mary Catholic Church where she proudly volunteered her time as a Eucharistic minister and to numerous other ministries within the parish. Alice will be greatly missed by her family, many friends, former students and fellow church members. Family and friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., Monday, February 26, 2018, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2300 West Jackson Street, Muncie, Indiana 47303. The Rosary will be recited at 11:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 noon. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Alice's life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to St. Mary Catholic School at 2301 West Gilbert Street, Muncie, Indiana 47303. The family would like to thank all those who generously offered their love, friendship and support to Alice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Elm Ridge Funeral Home. Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.elmridgefuneralhome.com