Susan Carol Stephens’ spirit was released peacefully Saturday February 28, 2026. She will always be remembered by her family and friends for her resilience, helpfulness, and sweet, gentle soul. Sue lived most of her life in the West Michigan area. She never met a stranger. She didn’t know how to hang up the phone or say goodbye; she just wanted to chat with you. Her bad days were never contagious, and she always trusted people had good intentions. She was a dedicated CNA for over 35 years, patiently caring for older adults, with a particular passion for those in memory care. She loved camping and walking in nature. She could be found dancing in the kitchen to songs like “Run Around Sue,” ensuring the pasta was always Al Dente or out in her front yard, sunbathing with her dear friends Greg and Ronnie. Suzy enjoyed day long road trips down her favorite “pig trails,” the blue hues of Lake Michigan, the fall colors of Newaygo, and anything her grandchildren were doing.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents Walter Sprowls, Hazel (Sikkenga) Harjer, and Michael Harjer. As well as her brother Tom Sprowls.
Sue is survived by her children Ann (Jeff) Lynn, John Teunis, April (Chris) Mitchell, Stefanie (Brian) McCallum, Christopher Peterman, and ShelbyRae (Tommy) Gepford, her sister Sharon Sprowls, her brother Jim Sprowls, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to the staff at Robbinswood Assisted Living Community and Faith Hospice for ensuring Sue’s final months were comfortable and peaceful.
A celebration of Sue’s life will occur when the sun is shining, and the weather is toasty-just the way Sue liked. Please remember Sue by taking that camping trip, that walk, greeting a stranger, picking up those feathers, and collecting those pinecones!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3627 Linden Avenue Southeast, Grand Rapids, MI 49548


What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more