Jerrie K. (Henry) Suckow, 88, of Franklin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, May 7, 2025. She was a former longtime resident of Columbus, Indiana.
Jerrie was born on February 19, 1937, in Connersville, Indiana, the daughter of the late Arthur Vernon and Madge L. (Kennedy) Henry. She married Stephen W. Suckow on August 9, 1959. She is survived by daughters, Carol Lynn Suckow of Maui, Hawaii, and Suzanne Normington (Brent) of Indianapolis, Indiana; two grandsons, Matthew Stephenson Kiel (Heather) and Lucas Normington (Elizabeth) and four great-grandchildren Maryn and Emery Kiel and Joseph and Felicity Normington. Jerrie was preceded in death by her beloved husband Stephen W. Suckow, her parents, and two sisters, Marcille (Henry) Willis and Wilma (Henry) Winters.
Jerrie was raised on her family's farm in rural Connersville and dedicated much of her time to 4-H, where she earned several blue ribbons. She graduated from Connersville High School in 1955 and from Franklin College in 1959, where she actively participated in numerous campus activities. She was honored as May Queen and was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She was deeply passionate and committed to the Tri-Delt chapter, serving in various roles such as Rush Chair and President. Following her college years, she remained actively involved in Tri-Delt alumni events, including welcoming new recruits and pledges to Franklin College.
Immediately upon graduation from Franklin College, she taught at Franklin High School until Steve completed his final year at Franklin College. They then moved to Bloomington, Indiana where Steve pursued a master's degree in library science at Indiana University. After relocating several times, they eventually settled in Columbus, Indiana. Jerrie taught at a local Columbus school before choosing to transition into the banking industry. In 1974, she started working at Irwin Union Bank in customer service as a teller and new accounts representative. After spending several years in customer service, Jerrie launched a successful career with Irwin Union Securities, where she made notable contributions as a financial advisor and was promoted to Vice President of Sales and Investment Counseling. Jerrie was highly respected in her career at Irwin Union, where she gained a reputation not only for her financial expertise but also for the authentic relationships she established with both clients and colleagues. Recognized throughout the community for her ability to foster trust and build lasting relationships, Jerrie brought warmth and understanding to every interaction. Throughout her career, Jerrie's unwavering commitment, deep knowledge and passion served as a true testament to her character and professionalism. Her dedication to her work and community remained steadfast until her retirement in June 2003.
After retirement, she and Steve enjoyed spending time antiquing and shopping all over Indiana-making frequent trips to Nashville, Indiana. Most importantly she loved being with Steve whether they were traveling around or just sitting at home watching old Turner classic movies. She was a devoted wife to Steve and always put his and her family's needs above her own. She was proud to be the grandmother of Matt and Lucas and cherished the time that she would spend with them. Jerrie was an outstanding cook and loved entertaining family during the holidays. She had a kind, sweet soul and always greeted everyone with a warm, welcoming smile.
Visitation for family and friends will be on Thursday, May 15th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Flinn and Maguire Funeral Home, 2898 North Morton Street, (U.S. 31 North) in Franklin, Indiana. Rev. Diana Thompson will conduct a celebration of Jerrie's life on Friday, May 16th at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with visitation on Friday from 10:00 a.m. to time of service. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, Indiana.
Donations in Jerrie's memory may be made to the
Alzheimer's Association, Greater Indiana Chapter (online donations:
https://www.alz.org/indiana or checks: 50 E. 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240) and the Friends of the Bartholomew County Public Library which can be sent to in c/o Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 5th Street Columbus, IN 47201.

Published by The Republic from May 14 to May 13, 2025.