Phyllis J. Acra

Phyllis J. Acra, 87, died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 10, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born April 1, 1937, in Greensburg, Indiana, she was the daughter of Joseph and Edna (Luken) Harpring. Phyllis committed most of her life to healthcare services as a registered nurse, much of which was spent as an ICU/CCU nurse at Henry County Memorial Hospital. Her gift continues after her death as she has donated her remains to medical science. 

Phyllis graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Oldenburg, Indiana, in 1955 before attending St. Vincent’s School of Nursing in Indianapolis. She graduated in 1958 as a registered nurse. She met and married Howard Eugene Acra in 1959, and together they had six children. She was a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church for over 45 years. 

Phyllis worked in so many capacities to fulfill the healthcare voids in the Henry County area. She formed incredible bonds with not only her patients and their families, but also with her tight-knit group of fellow nurses and healthcare workers. In retirement, she was enjoying spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed knitting and swimming during the winter months in Florida.

Phyllis is survived by six children: Derek of Columbus, Indiana, Gary (Susan) of Fleming Island, Florida, Ken (Jema) of Cando, North Dakota, Cara Neuman (Jeff) of New Castle, Indiana, Mary Beth of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Greg (Soni) of Middletown, Indiana; 14 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 2 additional great-grandchildren she will watch over and help guide into this world: Baby Neuman due in September, and Baby Crider due in October. Phyllis is also survived by one brother, Kenneth Walter Harpring of Greeley, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her sister, Marilyn Briley, and brother, Ralph Harpring.

Calling will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday August 16, 2024 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle, Indiana. The St. Vincent’s Nursing Honor Guard will begin their ceremony at 11:45 a.m. A funeral mass will be held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church at 1:30 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a nursing student scholarship fund of your choice.