Susan Kay Baxley

Susan Kay Baxley, age 71, of Salisbury, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at
Valley View Health and Rehabilitation.
She was born on October 26, 1953, in Carrollton, Missouri, to James W. and Nancy I.
(Woolridge) Bowen. A proud graduate of Salisbury High School, Class of 1971, Susan went on
to pursue a career in journalism. Over the years, she contributed her talents to several local
newspapers, inlcuding the Salisbury Press Spectator, the Brunswicker, and later the Chariton
County Journal. Her words brought stories to life and kept the heart of the community connected.
On April 19, 1980, Susan married Larry Mitchell Baxley, with whom she shared many years of
love and partnership before his passing on February 12, 2011. They were blessed with two
daughters, Nicole and Lindsay.
Susan was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and an active participant in her community.
She belonged to the Red Hat Society and the Missouri Press Association, embracing fellowship,
fun, and professional camaraderie.
She is survived by her daughters: Nicole Winkler (Scott) of Clifton Hill, MO; and Lindsay
Ostermann (Michael) of Salisbury, MO; and step son Trevan Baxley (Temple) of Greenwood,
MO. She was a loving grandmother to Nolen and Sophie Winkler, Lawson and Mara Ostermann,
and step-grandchildren Miriar and Mirixa Baxley.
Susan is also survived by her sisters, Shirley Day (Raymond) of Glasgow, MO, and Sally Bowen
of Moberly, MO; and several in-laws and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Larry; and one infant sister, Margaret
Delores.
A private burial will be held at a later date.