Sandy resident, Susan Chapman Franklin, died suddenly on January 20, 2017 at her home. She was 71.
Susan was born on May 5, 1945 in Norfolk, Virginia to Helen Willis (Chapman) and Howard Edward Owens. The family remained in Norfolk for her entire childhood and Susan lived and worked there in her early adult life.
Susan married Frank Smith on August 24, 1962 in North Carolina. They made their home in Norfolk and began their family there. The family later relocated and lived in Richmond and Portsmouth, Virginia for a time prior to returning to Norfolk. They were later divorced.
On September 2, 1983 Susan was married to Mike Franklin. They lived in Norfolk where Susan began her career as a seamstress. A few years later, they moved to Chesapeake where they resided for 2 years and then returned to Norfolk. Susan worked at a local dry cleaner for time prior to going to work for the Navy Exchange where she was employed until retiring in 1993.
In 1999, Susan along with her daughter and family moved to Sandy.
Susan loved to quilt, cook and teach exercise classes at the Sandy Senior Center. She traveled with friends on day-trips and spent time with her family and friends and loved spending time with her granddaughter.
Susan is survived by her daughters Kim (Colin) McClain and Anita Cutler; sons, Jerry Smith and Scott Smith; granddaughters Sarah McClain, Tabitha Sharrar (David), Kelly Oberle, Amanda (Warren) Peyton; grandson Bobby (Cadance) Gallop and 12 great-grandchildren.
Sandy Funeral Home is handling arrangements.