Willa Elizabeth Pope

Willa Elizabeth Pope of Indianapolis passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on July 6th, 1929, in Indianapolis, Indiana, she was the youngest of sixteen children born to the late Bradley and Alice Esters. 

Willa graduated from Crispus Attucks High School before earning a Bachelor's degree in elementary education and a Master's degree in school administration from Indiana Central University, now the University of Indianapolis. Her career in education spanned over four decades within the Indianapolis Public School District. Throughout her tenure, she held numerous significant roles, including student teacher, teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district human resources director. Beginning her service in the late 1950s, Willa played a pivotal role in promoting diversity recruitment across the district and was widely respected as a dedicated educator and administrator. 

Willa was a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Willa was initiated in the sorority on May 5, 1975. She had reached diamond status. She worked countless hours volunteering, serving on sorority committees, decorating for events; she lived out the sorority's commitment of service to all mankind. 

Willa was also highly active in the Indianapolis civic scene, notably serving as an officer for organizations like The Top Ladies of Distinction. She will forever be remembered for her involvement in her community, dedicating her life to making Indianapolis a better place for our youth. Willa was also associated with the Indianapolis Moles; the Moles were organized for fun, pleasure, and fellowship. Willa Pope, a charter member, forever kept in front of her that there is a destiny that makes us sisters; none goes her way alone, and all that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own. 

Willa is survived by her nieces and nephews—John Oldham (Ann), Charles Blair (Margo), Michael Chisley (Denise), Dr. Nicole Chisley, Ivan Oldham, Mary Jo Oldham, Judy Oldham, Ethel Jones, Sheila Jones, and Dede Jones—along with her stepchildren Richard Pope and Marjorie Jones, her friend Tracy Wehmeyer, along with a whole host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alice and Bradley Esters; her husband, Kenneth L. Pope; her nieces Betty Esters-Chisley and Sharon Oldham; and her eighteen siblings. Willa Elizabeth Pope’s enduring legacy is marked by her unwavering dedication to education and community, as well as the profound impact she made on the lives of those around her. She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed.