Ira Joy Chase (December 7, 1834 – May 11, 1895) was a veteran of the American Civil War, a leading member of the Grand Army of the Republic, a prominent Church of Christ evangelist, and the 22nd governor of Indiana between November 23, 1891, and January 9, 1893.

He married her and had three children before he joined the Union army at the start of the American Civil War.

His health was frequently poor during the war, so he was removed from front-line duty and served as a drill instructor to prepare and train new recruits.

Chase spent several weeks nursing her back to health, but the virus left her blind and crippled.

The group was heavily involved in political lobbying, primarily to secure benefits for veterans of the Civil War.

His high standing in the organization gained him clout in political circles because of his ability influence members' votes.

He was criticized by the Methodists and other large denominations for continuing to serve as a minister during his tenure primarily because of their dislike for the Church of Christ.

He delivered speeches at his many campaign stops where he would also preach a sermon later in the day at one of the area churches.