Sue McInish Lay

1950 - 2025

Sue McInish Lay peacefully departed on August 1, 2025, leaving a lasting mark on her community and all whom she came in contact with.
Sue was born March 11, 1950 in Mobile, Alabama, but grew up in Panama City, Florida. She graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from Florida State University in 1972. She furthered her education by obtaining her Masters Degree from Oglethorpe University and her Specialist in Education from Breneau University.
She married the love of her life, Richard Lay, on July 18, 1970. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and adventure. Her greatest joy was spending time with friends and family. An avid traveler, she accomplished her lifelong dream of visiting all 50 states and all seven continents. She was also a passionate reader and proud member of two book clubs. In addition to her love for books and travel, she enjoyed hiking, practicing yoga, and playing Mahjong.
Early in her career, Sue moved to Texas where she was employed as a social worker. After a number of years as a social worker she and Richard adopted their two children and she was a stay-at-home mom until her children started school. She spent the majority of her career as an educator, teaching school in three different states for a total of 27 years. She loved challenging her students and was known to motivate her class by unconventional means such as standing on her head! While teaching, Sue served on many committees and gave unwavering support to her students, fellow teachers, the families, and the communities where she taught.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Carol and James McInish.
She is survived by her devoted husband and travel companion of more than 55 years, Richard Lay; her son Andrew Lay-Barton (Michael Barton); her daughter Christine Knotts (Connie Carver); and her siblings: Ray McInish, David McInish (Gail), Jan (McInish) Alexander (Teddy), Patricia (McInish) Chin (Michael), Keith McInish (Angela), and Bobbie (McInish) Jernigan (William). She is also survived by her beloved siblings-in-law: Owen Lay, Evelyn Fink (Mike Fink), and Nancy Street.
Sue is lovingly remembered by her treasured groups of friends who became like family, including the Patagonia Family, the Beach Babes, Ellie's Book Club, and her Dahlonega friends. These deep connections brought her laughter, strength, and lifelong joy.
Sue's life was a testament to the power of curiosity, compassion, and connection. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.
There will be a celebration of life for Sue's large, extended family at a later date.