Susan Keith Stratton
(1920-2014)

"To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides"

Susan Stratton, our beloved Cousin, Aunt and friend, slipped quietly into the realm of immortality on Saturday October 11, 2014. Affectionately known as "Sue", she was distinguished by her warm smile and gentle demeanor, yet, one who was also known for her spitfire ways. She is most remembered for her love of family and friends, and as one of the elders of the family and community for many years.
Preceded in death by her spouse, Ernest Stratton, Susan inherited matriarch status of the Stratton/Nelson clan following the passing of her mother in law, Elenora Stratton and sister in law Marjorie Nelson. As the matriarch, she took center stage, and, along with her husband, was caretaker to the next generations of Nelsons. She was a great caretaker, a fantastic cook and she always warmed the hearts of all with her caring ways.
Susan was meticulous in everything she did, and things had to be done her way. As a consummate shopper, she was well known for her couture fashions and love of hats. Her husband often remarked about the routine shopping trips which found him sitting endlessly while she shopped almost until she dropped. Always known as a fashionista, this love of style persisted throughout her entire life.
Susan was a loyal community and church members and member of the usher ministry. As an early and enthusiastic supporter of the men's chorus, her consistent and unwavering support earned her an award of appreciation from the group during the very early years.
Susan spent her last years with friends and family – enjoying the best life that anyone could have. With initial reluctance, she was an early participant in the PACE program where she 'went to work each day' and relished in the attention given there. In addition to the clinical services received, this program gave meaning and dignity at a time that she needed additional support in life. There were so very many great activities and times, and she loved each minute. Staff showered her with love and care. It is also because of such involvement, support and intervention, that the quality of her life was so enriched; and, it is with the greatest respect and appreciation that we honor the work of the PACE program and staff. The smile on her face told the story as it could best be told.
Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another." As a warm and caring person, Susan radiated love, hope, peace, strength, wisdom, and joy of life. Her spiritual strength held her steady and calm.

At the marvelous age of 94, God has smiled from His Golden Throne and welcomed her home. She leaves treasured memories to a community of many loving relatives and friends; a special cousin Jean Pogue and her family, Osteen and Ronald Johnson, and Andrea Johnson-Speed of Sumter, South Carolina; Nephew Garrett Nelson Sr., wife Zebia, and cousins Garrett Nelson Jr. and Catherine Nelson of Ellicott City, Maryland; Neice Lena Nelson, and cousin Richard Nelson Jr., of Charlotte North Carolina; cousins Tawana King of Dry Fork Virginia, and Ronald Nelson Jr.; two devoted caregivers Lorenzo Megginson and Rachel Smith, and all the people who were touched and blessed by the joy and peace she shared.

We are grateful for her life and know that tomorrows will start without her. Yet, because of her absolute love of life and unselfish giving, every time we think of her, we know that she is right here in our lives and will forever live in the hearts of all of us.
I have passed the mountain peak and my soul is soaring in the firmament of
Complete and unbounded freedom; I am in comfort, I am in peace."
- Kahlil Gibran
A funeral service will be held 12:00 noon Friday, October 17, 2014 at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, with Rev. Carlton Jackson, officiating. The interment will be in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service. Condolences may be sent to www.Davis-Turner.com. Service of comfort rendered by Davis-Turner Funeral Home