Rosemary (Collins) Abbott

Rosemary Abbott, 91, of Indianapolis, passed away in the comfort of her home on Saturday, November 18, 2023, thanks to the loving care of her daughters.  She was born on August 14, 1932, in Indianapolis, to the late James William and Jessie Bruce (Austin) Collins.  She was the beloved wife of Rev. Thomas Abbott, who preceded her in death. 

Rosemary attended Sacred Heart Grammar School and High School.  She was very supportive in her husband’s ministry and often took on the role of church secretary while they served together in many congregations of the United Methodist Church, Southern Indiana District.  Rosemary loved the people she and Tom served and was proud of the many friendships she maintained throughout the years.  After her husband, Pastor Tom, passed away, she returned to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Rosemary enjoyed ceramics, needlework and painting (clothing).  She loved to travel and even took a trip to Israel, which she and Tom found very interesting after serving the Lord for so many years.  Rosemary was a very classy lady and always dressed the part; she was well respected and looked up to for her dedication and service within the churches she and Pastor Tom served.  She will be truly missed. 

Survivors include her daughters, Joyce Ann Tookes Carter and Vivian Lee Tookes; grandchildren, Rod (Christa) Carter, Tamara (Brian) Turner, Jason (Dawn) Carter and Jennifer Loy; great-grandchildren, Haley, Aaron, Isaac, Elias, Abbey, Emery and Stacia; great-great-grandchildren, Avery and Finley.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Rev. Thomas Abbott; son, Michael Bruce Tookes; and sister, Marguerite Hancock. 

A rosary service will be held on Monday, November 27 at 10:30 with visitation following from 11 to 6 p.m. in Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services, 1458 S. Meridian Street, Indianapolis.  A service celebrating her life will be held at 6 p.m. with Chaplain Mike Mercer, also in the funeral home.  Inurnment to be held on a later date in Greenwood Cemetery. 

Online condolences:  www.LauckFuneralHome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rosemary (Collins) Abbott, please visit our floral store.