DKG Alpha Sigma Chapter FL State

Sue Ellen Reed, a devoted mother and retired elementary school teacher, passed away peacefully at her family lakehouse in Peniel on May 20, 2025, itwh her loving daughter, Kelly M. Reed by her side providing dedicated care She was also surrounded by her beloved pets, including her loyal companion dog CoCoLatte and her cherished cats Ricochet, Bailey, and Nila. She was 80 years young at heart.

Born on August 3, 1944, in Falls Church, Virginia, Sue moved to Palatka at a young age, making a lasting impact on her community. She was a 1962 graduate of Palatka Senior High School, an accomplished musician who played trombone under the direction of Mr. Bill Turnbull and was also honored as a head majorette.

Sue furthered her education at St. Johns River Junior College, earning her Associate of Arts degree. She then transferred to the University of Florida, College of Education, graduating in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, majoring in English. During her time at St. Johns and U.F., she worked at the bag factory at Hudson Pulp & Paper mill to support her education and raise her child with the loving help of her parents, affectionately known as "Granny and Grandaddy."

As an elementary school teacher, Sue touched countless lives. Her passion for teaching and enthusiasm for learning inspired generations of students.

Sue began her teaching career on January 15, 1973, at Campbell Elementary School. Throughout her career, she taught at several Putnam County schools, including William D. Moseley Elementary, James A. Long Elementary, and Kelley Smith Elementary, where she concluded her teaching career. She also taught summer school at Mellon Elementary and evening classes at Palatka High School, retiring from teaching on December 31, 2002.

A lifelong lover of books and mystery novels, Sue found joy in reading and delighted in English comedy. Music was also a cherished part of her life; she played the piano. Her deep happiness came from horses, and she loved keeping her own on her beautiful pasture and rustic stables. She and her daughter, Kelly, shared many happy memories horseback riding, camping on weekends and holidays, celebrating birthdays at the beach, and miles of bike riding together. These shared experiences greatly inspired Kelly to create Peniel Bikes for Kids. Sue was enthusiastic about the charity, witnessing the joy it brought to both the giver and receiver.

Sue was a member of Peniel Baptist Church where she was baptized at a young age, and taught Sunday School and Acteens. During her illness, Sue and Kelly were continually amazed by the answered prayers of friends and neighbors, a testament to the power of faith that brought them comfort and strength.

Sue was a proud member of Delta Kappa Gamma, Alpha Sigma chapter, where she was recently recognized for her 45 years of membership in October 2023.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Mahlon and Evelyn Miller, her beloved paternal grandmother, Bertha Tolson, and her dear Aunt Phoebe, who nurtured her love of reading by generously gifting her with volumes of books.

Sue leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sue had preplanned her cremation.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date with Johnson-Overturf funeral home.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Sue’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.

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Come join us at our March 9th meeting!
5:00-5:30 Fellowship
6:00-6:30 Special Guest Speaker Angela Mills of Baby Brain Builders