It is with deep sorrow that the community of Lafayette mourns the passing of Kristel S. (Sims) Isaacs, who passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. She was 36 years old.
Born on August 22, 1988, in Lafayette, Indiana, Kristel was the cherished daughter of Chris and Tammy (Anthrop) Sims of West Point, Indiana. She grew up in a loving family and was known for her kind heart, generous spirit, and determination to support and care for those she loved. Kristel’s vibrant personality and dedication to her family, friends, and community left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Kristel was a proud graduate of McCutcheon High School in Lafayette, where she was known for her enthusiasm and drive. She continued her education at Ball State University before earning her nursing degree from Western Governors University (WGU). Kristel was a dedicated Registered Nurse who worked at Community Hospital in Indianapolis, where she had the opportunity to help countless patients. However, her greatest joy and accomplishment came from her decision to become a stay-at-home mom and homeschooling her children.
On June 28, 2021, Kristel married the love of her life, Jacob E. Isaacs, in a beautiful ceremony in the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Kristel and Jacob shared a deep bond, and their marriage was one of immense love and mutual respect. Jacob survives Kristel, along with their three beloved children: Elsie S. Hancock, Jaiden R. Hancock, and Decklan E. Isaacs. Kristel was also a loving stepmother to Jacob’s children, Alivia S. Isaacs and Eli L. Isaacs.
Kristel’s devotion to her children was unmatched. She was an active member of the Booster Club for Dance Moves Gymnastics, where she supported her daughter Elsie’s passion for dance and gymnastics. Kristel loved traveling with Elsie to her events, and her commitment to her children’s development in sports was evident as she was always present to cheer on Jaiden and Decklan at their sporting activities.
Kristel’s nurturing nature extended beyond her immediate family. She was deeply committed to making sure that her children, whether biological or stepchildren, felt loved, supported, and encouraged in all aspects of their lives. Kristel’s efforts to homeschool her children were a testament to her dedication as a mother and her desire to provide them with the best education in the most personal and caring way.
Kristel was also an active member of her community and was known for her support of local organizations. In addition to her involvement with Dance Moves Gymnastics, she supported other community initiatives, including Studio 765 in Lafayette, IN. Kristel’s sense of giving and community spirit made her a beloved figure among her peers and friends, as she always sought to contribute to causes that were meaningful to her family and her hometown.
Kristel’s passing has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who knew her. She was a kind, thoughtful, and vibrant person whose presence brought joy to many. Kristel’s family was at the center of her world, and she will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but for the love and devotion she showed her family and community.
In addition to her husband and children, Kristel is survived by her brother, Michael A. Sims (Kelly) of West Point, Indiana; her beloved grandparents, Carolyn Smith of Lafayette and Shirley Sims of Romney; and several nieces and a nephew, all of whom she held dear. Kristel’s family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing her will forever cherish the memories of her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love.
Kristel’s visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, located at 400 Twyckenham Blvd. A service in her honor will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 22, 2025, also at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel. Kristel will be laid to rest at St. Mary Cemetery in Lafayette, where her family and loved ones will gather to say their final goodbyes.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the DMG Booster Club and/or Studio 765 in Lafayette, Indiana, to honor Kristel’s love for her children’s extracurricular activities and her commitment to supporting the local community.
Kristel Isaacs will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy as a loving mother, devoted wife, and dedicated member of the community will continue to inspire all who were touched by her life. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she impacted throughout her 36 years.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone for their support, prayers, and kind words during this difficult time. Kristel’s passing leaves a void that will never be filled, but her spirit will live on in the lives of those she loved and in the memories she leaves behind.
