With profound sorrow and deep admiration, we remember and celebrate the life of Lindsey Denae Fields, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, and a treasured educator, mentor, and friend. Lindsey passed away on January 29, 2025, as one of the victims of American Airlines Flight 5342. Her loss is immeasurable, but the impact she made on the lives of those who knew her will endure forever.

Born on July 22, 1984, in Liberal, Kansas, to Dr. Todd and Feliza (Ramon) Carter, Lindsey grew up in Forgan, OK where she was an active student, excelling in sports, music, and cheer. Her passion for science and education led her to pursue higher learning, earning a Pre-Veterinary Medicine degree from Seward County Community College, followed by both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Zoology from Oklahoma State University. Her thirst for knowledge and commitment to research took her to the University of Mississippi, where she engaged in PhD work in molecular genetics. Along the way, she interned at the Oklahoma City Zoo and later taught at Ole Miss and Northwest Mississippi Community College, sharing her vast expertise in biology and physical sciences.

In 2014, Lindsey returned to Kansas after the science education doctoral program at Ole Miss was closed, bringing her enthusiasm and brilliance to Butler Community College. She quickly became an integral part of the Biology Department, teaching General Biology, Majors Biology 1 and 2, and Anatomy/Physiology. Her dedication and leadership were recognized when she became Department Chair in 2021. Lindsey’s influence extended beyond the classroom—she was an academic advisor, mentor, advocate, leader, and a beacon of encouragement for students and colleagues alike.

Lindsey’s passion for science education reached far beyond Butler Community College. As the President-Elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers’ Board of Directors, she was a tireless advocate for excellence in life science education. She was enroute to Washington, D.C., to represent the NABT community when tragedy struck, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to advancing education and fostering connections among educators. Her dedication to her students, her colleagues, and the broader educational community leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lindsey was a loving wife to her husband Michael and supermom to her three-year-old daughter Avery. Michael was Lindsey’s soulmate; they shared a deep, loving partnership in all aspects of life. From watching their favorite TV shows and movies to working together on furniture projects, they were inseparable. They loved hiking in the mountains, exploring new places, and sharing great meals together. Every moment spent with her was filled with love and a deep companionship.

What made Lindsey’s heart soar was her daughter Avery. Exploring nature, trips to the zoo, preschool activities, dance class, and playing outside were favorite activities. They also shared a love for cooking shows and preparing food together. Avery loves books because she spent countless hours rocking and reading with her mom. Lindsey and Avery would Facetime with Nana Feliza almost daily so Nana could read books for them, too. Lindsey made sure Avery’s days were filled with love, laughter, learning, and valuing others. Caregivers, doctors, and teachers told Lindsey they wished all parents were like her.

Lindsey was a cherished friend, and an irreplaceable presence in the lives of those who knew her. Her laughter was contagious, her kindness unending, and her spirit a source of inspiration. She found joy in cooking, reading, hiking, and spending time with her family and treasured Great Danes Abby & Bella. The mountains called to her heart, and she loved to escape to their beauty to fish and reflect on life.

In her spare time, when she wasn’t shaping students’ lives or spending time with her family, Lindsey served as a transporter for Big Dogs, Huge Paws, and as a volunteer and foster for Beauties and Beasts. She also served as a Key Spouse for the Kansas Air National Guard, appointed by the Squadron Commander. In this role, she acted as a liaison between military families and leadership, offering support and guidance to families in times of need.

Lindsey’s colleagues and friends describe her as a joyful, positive force who uplifted everyone around her. She just really had a positive attitude and was always happy was a sentiment echoed by all who knew her. Her ability to connect with others, to share knowledge with passion, and to inspire with her enthusiasm made her a truly extraordinary person.

Lindsey is survived by her beloved husband Michael Fields; the light of her life Avery; father Dr. Todd Carter; mother Feliza Carter; sister Elizabeth Wakefield; grandmother Deborah Carter and many other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Cletus Carter and Dr. Serafin and VaLois Ramon.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on February 22, 2025 at Hope Community Church, 1831 E. 21st St., Andover and can be viewed online by clicking here.

To honor her memory and continue her legacy of love and learning, we are establishing the Lindsey (Carter) Fields Memorial Science Scholarship. This scholarship will empower future scientists to pursue their dreams, just as Lindsey inspired us all to chase ours. Please join us in keeping her light shining brightly by contributing to this fund at: https://gofund.me/2eccf085.

As we mourn the loss of Lindsey Fields, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived. She was a light in so many lives, and though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit remains in the lessons she taught, the love she shared, and the memories she created.

Lindsey, you were a treasure to all who knew you, and we will carry your legacy forward with gratitude and love. Rest in peace.