M. Sue Dines

COVINGTON, Ind. - M. Sue Dines, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday (May 19, 2025) at Fountain Springs, Covington, Ind.

Born on April 30, 1939, in Danville, to Forrest and Mildred McGowen, she was known for her unwavering generosity and love for her family.

Sue's professional journey began at the State's Attorney's Office, where she lent her skills as a legal secretary for eight years. Following this, she devoted 15 years to serving as the legal secretary for Don Merlie, further establishing her reputation for responsibility and diligence. She then culminated over 25 years at Dines Machine & Manufacturing before her eventual retirement.

A proud graduate of Potomac High School, Sue was more than an exemplary worker; she was a radiant beacon of kindness in her community. Her legacy is filled with the countless generous deeds she performed for others. Sue was an engaging member of various local organizations, including the Red Hat Society and the Danville Boat Club, where she forged enduring friendships and spread her contagiously warm-hearted enthusiasm. She also proudly belonged to Elk Lodge 332 in Danville, where her peers recognized her outstanding contributions by naming her Lady Elk of the Year. Sue's involvement with the Women in Construction and her attendance at Second Church of Christ were testaments to her dedication to community and faith.

Sue, also affectionately referred to as "Grandma Suey" by most who knew her, married Ralph D. Reed in 1958 and then later married Max Dines in 1979. Both have preceded her in death. In addition to Ralph and Max, she was also preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter Miley Reed; and siblings Donna (Curtis) Orr, Nancy (Dale) Farner, Glen McGowen and Francis McGowen.

Sue is survived by her children, Rick (Beccy) Reed of Danville, Julie (Kevin) McKenzie of Danville and Judith Dines of Westville; as well as her grandchildren Lindsay Darr, Tyler (Stefanie) McKenzie and Lauren (Matt) Wivinis. Over the past couple of years, she proudly welcomed three great-grandchildren into the family, Reese McKenzie, Reed Wivinis and Walker Wivinis, who will miss her dearly. She also leaves behind her brother Lloyd (Margaret) McGowen of Williamsport and sisters-in law Linda Smith, who became one of her dearest friends, and Sandy Steinbaugh.

Above all else, Sue loved spending time with her family.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff with Southern Care Hospice and Fountain Springs for the wonderful care provided to Sue.

A celebration of life service will be at noon Friday, May 23, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville. Officiating will be the Rev. Dr. Dale DeNeal. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park's Swan Court Mausoleum. A visitation will be held prior from 11 a.m. to noon Friday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Bismarck Blessings, P.O. Box 354, Bismarck, IL 61814; or to the Miley Reed Scholarship Foundation (Code R035) at Olivet Nazarene University, 1 University Ave., Bourbonnais, IL 60914.

Please join Sue's family in sharing memories, pictures or videos on her tribute wall at sunsetfuneralhome.com.