Ms. Sue Ann Colley, 84, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home in the early morning hours of Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 3:30 a.m. Though her passing leaves a quiet space in the hearts of those who loved her, the memory of her strength, warmth, and spirited nature will continue to live on in all who knew her.

Sue was born in South Bend on October 17, 1941, to the late Bernard J. and Faye (Johnston) Emery. A lifelong resident of the area, she carried with her a deep-rooted appreciation for simple pleasures, hard work, and the beauty found in everyday life. She graduated from Washington–Clay High School in 1960 and soon after began a dedicated career, working many years at Bendix and later with Honeywell in both the Brakes and Aircraft Divisions. A proud member of UAW Local #9, Sue was known for her strong work ethic, resilience, and the quiet pride she took in doing her job well.

Yet beyond her work, Sue’s true joy was found in the life she built with her family and the world she cultivated around her home. She had a deep and abiding love for the outdoors—a love that was not merely a pastime, but a part of who she was. Her yard was her sanctuary, a place where flowers flourished under her careful tending and where birds and wildlife were always welcome guests. She felt most at home with her hands in the soil, often gardening barefoot, completely at ease with the earth beneath her. Her daughters still marvel at her remarkable knowledge of plants and flowers—there seemed to be nothing she couldn’t identify or nurture to life.

Sue also had a joyful spirit that carried into her love of travel and time spent with those closest to her. She cherished outings to dinner, where laughter and conversation came easily, and she especially treasured the trips she shared with her daughters. Together they made lasting memories exploring places such as Arizona, the Smoky Mountains, Graceland, and Michigan’s breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Music, too, held a special place in her heart.

Above all, Sue was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love for her family was steady, generous, and deeply felt—a quiet but constant presence. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Cheryl L. Tomkiewicz of Elkhart and Kimberly S. Colley of South Bend; her granddaughters, Kauri (Noah Lace) Tomkiewicz and Cortney (Trey Temple) Tomkiewicz; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Easton, Emilia, and Elliott Lace. She was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas E. Emery.

In keeping with Sue’s wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkhart on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Sue’s love extended not only to her family and her garden, but also to the animals she so faithfully cared for. In her memory, memorial contributions may be made to a pet refuge or animal shelter of one’s choice.

Though she may no longer walk among her flowers, the beauty she created, the love she gave, and the life she lived so fully will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.