Susan Craine Terry

September 19, 1944 - February 1, 2021

Mrs. Susan Craine (”Sue”) Terry, daughter of the late John Pares Craine and Esther Strong, was born September 19, 1944 in San Francisco, California. Her father was a clergyman of the Episcopal church and his calling saw the family move several times early in Sue’s life, first taking them to Seattle when she was five months old where he became the rector of Trinity Church. The summer of 1950 saw the family move cross country to the city of Indianapolis, where her father became rector of Christ Church Cathedral, and ultimately, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis. It was in Indianapolis that the family would remain, and here that she would have the great fortune of meeting her best friend and the love of her life. Sue was united in holy matrimony to her beloved husband Mr. Thomas T (“Tom”) Terry on June 10, 1967, with the special honor of having the service performed by her father, Bishop John Pares Craine. Their union was blessed with two children, Andrew John and Jonathan Thomas, and spanned more than 53 years at her passing. Sue was loved and cherished by so many, and for more reasons than one could imagine. Her love, empathy, and tender heart, especially for those in need of those very qualities, were worn on her sleeve and were as genuine and true as heavenly possible. While raising her two young boys, she heeded a calling of her own, and set about with great dedication and determination to attend college and receive, initially her Bachelor’s and ultimately, her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Indiana University. Not surprising to those who knew her, she finished top of her class, graduated with Highest Distinction, and delivered the Commencement address at her graduation at the age of 39. For nearly twenty years it was that spirit and dedication to support and advocate for those in need that earned her the affection and gratitude of so many. Nothing in this world brought Sue greater joy than her grandchildren, whom affectionately called her “Grammie.” Whether it be jumping at any opportunity to babysit (distance and plane tickets were no obstacle), playing make believe (pretend hotel trips, airplane and elevator rides, trips to the store..), or sharing and “showing off” pictures of their latest exploits and achievements, no grandmother took greater pride in or held more love for their dear grandchildren than “Grammie.” Sue spent some of the very happiest years of her life amongst the dear friends she made as a resident of Pelican Sound. She so loved being with the many friends she met through her Golf and Bible Study groups and her wonderful smile and infectious laugh could be seen and heard well beyond the standard earshot, be it across a crowded room or while holding a glass of wine at her beloved River Club. To say that she will be missed is an understatement of Herculean proportions. Sue is survived by her loving husband of over 53 years, Tom; her children, Andrew (Kate) of Arlington Heights, IL and Jonathan (Ali) of Dry Creek, MO; five grandchildren, Jack, Grace, Harlan, Juniper, and Maeve; her sister, Elizabeth “Buffy” Searle of Carmel, IN; special sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sara Jane and Jim Wurster of Bonita Springs, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her mother and father, John Pares and Esther Strong Craine; and her brother, John Pares Craine II. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Hope Hospice Healthcare, Development Department, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908, or at Donate.HopeHCS.org Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home.