Sue Heustess

Sue Gray Heustess, 81, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010, at her home in New Smyrna Beach, Fla.

Born Dec. 13, 1928, in Birmingham Ala., she was the second daughter of Jesse and Kathryn Gray. She graduated from the University of Alabama, where she met her loving husband of 46 years, Dan C. Heustess (deceased).

Well-known for her incredible sewing talent, she dedicated her life to raising her three natural children, as well as her niece and nephew who tragically lost their parents at a young age. She was a very active member of Chamblee United Methodist Church and participated in many civic and social groups before moving to New Smyrna Beach in 2003. She enjoyed her final years close to her family in the small beach town.

Sue is survived by a son, Gray (Regina) Heustess of New Smyrna Beach; two daughters, Nita Heustess (Luke Webb) of New Smyrna Beach, Joy (Bob) Garrett of Cape Girardeau; special niece, Jeanne (Kurt) Klemmer of Kenosha, Wis.; special nephew, Michael (Barbara) Anderson of Beaver Creek, Ohio; six grandchildren, Kelsey, Ellen, Anna, Zachary, Hannah and Nathanial; a sister-in-law, six nieces, a nephew and their families.

Many thanks to Tracie Saturday who lovingly cared for Sue in her final months as they formed a priceless friendship. Sue will be dearly missed by all those who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Sue's memory to the Central and North Florida Chapter Alzheimer's Association, 378 Center Pointe Circle, Suite 1280, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.

A celebration of her life will begin at noon Dec. 11 at 640 S. Pine St. in New Smyrna Beach.

Settle-Wilder Funeral Home in New Smyrna Beach was in charge of arrangements.