ZIONSVILLE, Indiana — The Zionsville community is mourning the death of Truman James Greaves, a 19-year-old Purdue University freshman whose passing has brought profound sadness to his family, friends, former classmates, and the wider community.

Greaves was a 2025 graduate of Zionsville Community High School and was studying engineering at Purdue University as a member of the Honors College. He was living in West Lafayette while attending the university.

Authorities identified Greaves after he was found deceased in an academic building on Purdue’s campus earlier in March. The Tippecanoe County coroner confirmed his identity, while the circumstances surrounding his death remained under investigation. Officials reported that there was no indication of foul play at the time.

Purdue University made counseling and other support services available to students and staff affected by the loss.

Before beginning his college education, Greaves had established an impressive academic record. He graduated summa cum laude from Zionsville Community High School and was recognized as a National Merit Scholarship finalist. He participated in debate and Model United Nations and was remembered for his intellectual curiosity, compassion, and willingness to contribute to his community.

Greaves also demonstrated a strong interest in innovation and entrepreneurship. He won first place at the STARTedUP Foundation’s Innovate WithIN state finals for Compleyes.ai, reflecting his creativity and interest in developing ideas with practical applications.

Those who knew Truman remembered more than his academic accomplishments. Family members described him as a “bright soul,” while friends and classmates remembered his warmth, intelligence, and character.

Outside academics, Greaves enjoyed rock climbing, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, and spending time with his two cats, Boulder and Pebbles.

He is survived by his mother, Andrea Jeffers Spiegelberg; father, Christopher Greaves; siblings, Athena and Harrison; grandparents, Tom and Gretchen Jeffers and Lee Greaves; stepfather, Scott Spiegelberg; and stepsiblings, Katelyn and Brie.

His death has left his loved ones grieving the loss of a young man whose life was filled with promise, accomplishments, and meaningful relationships. For those who knew him, his memory will extend beyond his academic achievements to the kindness, enthusiasm, and compassion he showed others.

A celebration of Truman’s life was scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at St. Francis In-The-Fields Episcopal Church in Zionsville. The family requested memorial contributions to the Boone County/Zionsville chapter of PFLAG or World Central Kitchen.

As family, friends, classmates, and community members continue to grieve, Truman James Greaves is being remembered for the promise he demonstrated, the people he inspired, and the positive contributions he made during his brief but meaningful life.

May Truman James Greaves rest in peace. May his family and loved ones find comfort in the memories they shared with him and strength during this difficult time.