Susan Lee Patterson ( Ertel), 77, of Swayzee, Indiana, unexpectedly passed following a brief illness on March 18, 2026. Born on August 20, 1948, in Marion, Indiana, Susan lived a life dedicated to her family, faith, and education.

Susan grew up in Indiana and attended Swayzee High School until its closure before graduating from Oak Hill High School. She pursued higher education at Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University) and Indiana University, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Education. Her passion for teaching led her to a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the Oak Hill and Elwood public school systems. Susan was deeply committed to shaping young minds and fostering a love of learning in her students.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Susan is survived by her loving husband of fifty-four years, Derek Patterson; her children Doug (Tab) Patterson, Denny (Sara) Patterson, and Erin Patterson Vermilion; her grandchildren Gabriella Vermilion, Christian Vermilion, Trinity Patterson, Sadie Patterson, and Lily Patterson; her siblings Sarah Ertel, Joe (Marcia) Ertel, and Cindy (Steve) Cape. She was predeceased by her parents Glenn Denny Ertel and Della Mae Ertel.

Susan’s faith was central to her life. She was a member of the Converse Church of Christ in Converse, Indiana. Her dedication to service extended beyond her church community as she actively participated in the Swayzee Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star serving the Elwood area.

In addition to her professional accomplishments and community involvement, Susan found joy in simple pleasures. She was an avid Indiana University fan and loved cheering for the Hoosiers. She enjoyed reading books that transported her to new worlds and crocheting blankets that brought warmth to others. Traveling allowed her to explore new places and create cherished memories with loved ones. One of Susan’s joys was gathering with fellow retired teachers from Elwood Community Schools for lunches and reunions filled with camaraderie and laughter.

Susan's warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Her laughter brightened every room she entered, and she cherished every moment spent with family. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched as an educator, friend, and family member.

If you would like to share a memory or tribute for Susan Lee Patterson, please send your name along with your memory or tribute to jtravis@conversechurch.org.

May Susan’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her as they celebrate a life well-lived. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 1, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Converse Church of Christ 301 E Wabash St., Converse, IN 46919. Visitation will be March 31st from 6-8PM and April 1st from 10-11AM. There will also be a lunch following her Celebration of Life at 12PM on April 1st. All Celebration of Life events will take place at Converse Church of Christ.