Susan Anne Chitwood, 77, of Mexico, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia. After a courageous battle with cancer, Susan died while surrounded with love by her close-knit family at her side.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 24, at the First Presbyterian Church in Mexico. A private burial service for the family will follow at Lick Creek Cemetery in Perry, where Susan will be laid to rest next to her husband, Michael, who was the love of her life.

Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday evening, April 23, at Arnold Funeral Home.

Susan was born on August 30, 1948, in St. Louis, the daughter of Bill and Marjorie (DeHart) Williams. On July 2, 1966 in St. Charles, she married Michael Launie Chitwood. He passed away on June 24, 2001.

Sue graduated from Francis Howell High School in 1966 and began her career with the Missouri Division of Family Services in St. Charles. Following her retirement, she and her husband moved to Perry, where they opened a local restaurant, "The Parlor," known for serving delicious pies and homestyle desserts. After her husband's death, she relocated to Mexico and enjoyed a second career as a paraprofessional at Eugene Field Elementary.

She was known as "Susie" by her parents and husband, "Mom" by her children, "Mamaw" by her grandchildren and their friends, and "Miss Sue" by her students. She had a fierce and selfless love for her family and was always there for them. She was well read, enjoyed decorating for the seasons and holidays, entertaining, watching movies, shopping, antiquing & thrifting, cooking, taking care of others, and making life as beautiful as she could. She was stylish, had a fun sense of humor, and was even "cool"--always up-to-date with the latest music trends. For example, she attended a Guns N' Roses concert in her earlier years. Whenever someone told her how impressed they were with her "with-it-ness," she'd reply, "Hey, I lived through the 1960s."

Susan had a strong appreciation for anyone who fought for our country during the Vietnam War, had a deep relationship with God, and let Him guide her throughout her entire life. Susan was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church in Mexico, where she served as a Stephen Minister, specially trained to help others navigate difficult times through faith. She was also a member of Presbyterian Women's, Rebekah's Circle.

She was actively involved in P.E.O., DK Chapter, the Chautauqua Reading Club, and the Retired Teachers Association.

Survivors include one daughter, Vanessa (Jason) Lamb of Mexico; one son, Michael Chitwood of Mexico; and four grandchildren, Jackson Lamb, Brooks Lamb, and Abigail Chitwood, all of Mexico, and Drayden Chitwood of Madison.

In addition to her husband, Michael, Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Marjorie Williams; and one brother, Billy Williams.

She will be greatly missed and lives on through the beautiful and loving memories of her family and friends. Memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Mexico.