Lois Jean Eskenazi, a well-known philanthropist and supporter of the arts and healthcare in Indianapolis, passed away on January 4, 2026, in Jupiter, Florida, at the age of 92. She was born on February 20, 1933, in Chicago and later moved to Indiana, where she attended university.See more…
During her time at Indiana University, Lois met her husband Sidney Eskenazi, with whom she was married for over 70 years. The couple had three children and raised their family in Indianapolis, becoming prominent figures in community philanthropy.
Lois was also a talented artist, skilled in painting and pastel, and exhibited her work at local events, often receiving recognition for her creativity. She was also passionate about golf and cultural activities.
Together with her husband, Lois made significant philanthropic contributions to the Indiana community, including supporting the construction of the Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital, one of the largest donations ever made to a public hospital in the U.S. They also supported Indiana University and established the art museum and the School of Art, Architecture, and Design that bear their name.
Lois Eskenazi will be remembered as a kind, generous, and beloved woman who impacted countless lives through art, healthcare, and philanthropy. Her funeral was planned in Indianapolis, and the family invited people to honor her memory through donations to the causes she supported.
Leave a Reply