Sue Ellen Spay, 81, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at The Fountains in Bettendorf, where she had recently made her home. Surrounded by the love of her family and friends throughout her life, Sue will be remembered most for her kindness, unwavering devotion to those she loved, and the joy she brought to so many.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Our Savior Lutheran Church, a church she faithfully served and loved for more than 50 years. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Friday at the church, and again Saturday from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service. Sue will be laid to rest at Pleasant Valley Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church. McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sue was born on June 5, 1944, in Monroe, Michigan to Ernest Thomas and Roberta Catherine (Wreede) Crawford. From an early age, her intelligence and determination were evident. She graduated as valedictorian from Airport High School in Carleton, Michigan and later earned her degree in dental hygiene from University of Michigan.

Sue spent many years working as a dental hygienist, a career perfectly suited to her caring and compassionate nature. It was through dentistry that she met the love of her life, Tom — during one of his dental appointments. The two were married on August 7, 1965, in Carleton, Michigan beginning a beautiful marriage filled with love, laughter, faith, and family.

Sue lived life fully and joyfully. Her faith was at the center of who she was, and she gave generously of her time and talents to her church community. She sang in the choir for many years, served as choir director, taught Sunday School, and guided countless children and families through her leadership and example. She was also an avid golfer and treasured her years with the Waterman Ladies Golf Team. Sue and Tom especially enjoyed spending winters in California and later Texas, where they built treasured friendships and countless happy memories.

Above all else, Sue’s greatest joy was her family. She was a deeply devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who rarely missed a game, concert, recital, or special moment. Whether cheering from the sidelines or simply offering a listening ear and loving encouragement, Sue made each member of her family feel supported and cherished.

Those left to carry forward Sue’s memory include her beloved husband, Tom; her daughter, Natalie (Sam) Park of Frisco, Texas; her son, Matthew (Robin) Spay of Bettendorf; her cherished grandchildren, Jordan (Ani) Spay, Ashlyn (Caleb) Gudeman, Harry Park, and Alexandra Spay; and her adored great-grandchildren, Adalynn Spay, Camryn Spay, Beckett Gudeman, and another precious great-grandson expected very soon. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters, Sandra (John) Cottle of St. Louis, Missouri and Karen Jennings of Horseshoe Bay, Texas along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law, Bob Jennings.

Her warmth, grace, faith, and steadfast love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.