Sue Ellen Smith, 86, formerly of Hutchinson, died Feb. 16, 2021, in Bloomington, IL. She was born Oct. 10, 1934, in Jacksonville, TX, to James Fulton and Essie Mae (Halbert) Madden.
Sue graduated from Rusk High School, Rusk, TX in 1953, and Sam Houston University, Huntsville, TX in 1956. In 1997, she retired from teaching elementary school at Buhler Unified School District #313. Sue enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, singing, and performing, and going to dinner with the “Anchor Inn Group”. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, and DOERS Sunday School Class. Sue moved to Bloomington, IL, to be closer to her family. In Bloomington, she lived in Carriage Crossing Senior Living, where she was known for her infectious smile and playful personality. The family is so appreciative for the love and care given to Sue at Carriage Crossing.
On Aug. 8, 1959, she married James Robert “Bob” Smith, in Rusk, TX. They shared almost 59 years of marriage, before his death on April 8, 2018.
Sue is survived by: children, Steve and wife Julie of Naperville, IL, Susan Rapp and husband Ray of Bloomington, IL; grandchildren, Ryan Smith (Sarah), Midland, MI, Colin Smith, Argentina, Nathan Rapp, Hubbard, TX, Merritt Smith, Chester, VA, Nolan (Michelle) Rapp, Waco, TX, Mallory Smith, Los Angeles, CA, Beatrice Smith, Auburn, AL and Millie Smith, Naperville, IL; and great-grandchildren, Holman, Sidney, Winston, Maycie, Adelai, Kael, and Aidric Smith, and Emerson and Graysen Rapp.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Frank Halbert Madden.
Cremation has taken place. Due to Covid-19, her memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Sue sang for many years in the Chancel Choir at Trinity United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Church (for the music department), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.