South Dakota mourns death of World War II nurse Marcella LeBeau

November 23, 2021

PIERRE, S.D.–South Dakota is mourning the death of Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe member Marcella LeBeau. She died at the age of 102.

Governor Noem issued a statement Monday saying:

“Marcella LeBeau served both her community and her country as a member of the Greatest Generation. Her service as a nurse during World War II has been chronicled by historians. Her dedication as a nurse in the Indian Health Services for more than 30 years has left a legacy that will live in our hearts and minds forever. Bryon and I send our condolences to the entire Lakota nation as they remember Marcella. Her kind, servant’s heart will be missed.”

On October 12, 2019, the state of South Dakota proclaimed it Marcella LeBeau Day in honor of her 100th birthday.

More information on Marcella LeBeau can be found by clicking here: https://www.sdstate.edu/graduation/commencement-program/marcella-lebeau