Reo D. Campbell

Reo Campbell, 50,  passed away on December 25, 2019 in Plainfield, Indiana. He was the son of the late Jerline Campbell McGill and Jerry D. Hart. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Nidhal, four children, Elmareo, Elvonte, Nayyir and Nailah, three grandchildren, his sister, Tanisha Hart-Love (Tarrick) and a number of extended family and close friends.

Reo was born on November 10, 1969 in Wynne, Arkansas. He grew up surrounded by a very large family, which included his maternal grandparents, aunts, uncles, and three brothers “by heart” (his two cousins and a close friend). Reo graduated from Wynne High School and then attended college at Drexel University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management. He then moved on to complete graduate school at the University of Phoenix where he earned a Master of Business Administration. During his first year of college, Reo obtained a work-study job in the financial aid office and he never looked back. Reo’s work ethic was respected by many. He quickly climbed the financial aid job ladder while concurrently obtaining his college education. Subsequent to graduation, Reo became Director of Financial Aid at the Drexel University College of Medicine. After 10 years of service at Drexel, and being honored with the Golden Apple Award for outstanding customer service (the first such award any financial aid administrator had ever received in the history of the College), Reo decided it was time for a change. He moved on to Valley Forge Military College, Newbury College, and Colby College. Finally, he accepted a position in his most current role as Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Financial Aid at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. He was also recently appointed Multicultural Chair for his department. Reo loved his work and even more, loved helping students. If you worked with Reo, you definitely knew how deeply he believed in the motto “Students First”. Reo always put the needs of students and their satisfaction above anything else.

Reo was not only dedicated to his profession, but also to his family. He had a deep love for those closest to him. He always found that it was important to ensure that everyone around him felt comfortable and happy. One way that Reo expressed his love to others was through cooking. Without any effort, he would have multiple courses of hot food completed at the same time. People often went up for seconds and cleared their plates clean, which gave Reo a sense of satisfaction. He had a life-long dream to open a bed and breakfast upon retirement. He was loved by those who knew him and was often described as one who could easily connect with others. Reo will always be cherished for his generous, loving, determined and humorous spirit.

In accordance with Reo’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Saturday, January 11, 2020 from 12:30-3:30 pm and a memorial service will follow at 3:30 pm at Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, 106 Shaw Street, Plainfield, Indiana.