Sue Harper Stanford

Sue Harper Stanford, a beloved teacher and devoted family member, passed away on September 9, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina, at the age of 87, after a brief decline in health. Born on September 16, 1937, in Burlington, North Carolina, Sue exemplified strength, feistiness, creativity and independence throughout her life, leaving an indelible mark on all those she encountered.

A proud graduate of St. Mary's Junior College in 1957 and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1959, Sue dedicated many years to shaping young minds as a teacher. Her career not only reflected her passion for education but also showcased her commitment to nurturing the next generation. She encouraged young people to think for themselves and be creative.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sue's interests were rich and varied. She had a deep passion for genealogy and ancestry research, lovingly tracing her family's roots. Sue enjoyed gardening, reveling in the beauty of nature, and she held a special appreciation for antiques. An avid bridge player, she found joy in the camaraderie of the game, creating lasting memories with friends and family.

Sue was a former member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, demonstrating her love for history and heritage. She took great pride in decorating the ancestral graves of her family during holidays, underscoring her dedication to honoring her loved ones. Her original family home served as a community resource, most notably as the Hospice House of Alamance County.

Her proudest accomplishments were her roles as a mother and grandmother. She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her legacy forward. Sue is survived by her brother, Don Stanford; her daughters, Stacy Stowe Schick and Susan Stowe Krause; sons-in-law John-Paul Schick and Jason Krause; and her beloved grandchildren: Xander Stowe Schick, Sebastian Stowe Schick, John "Jack" Stowe Krause, and Grace Caroline Krause.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alice Homewood Stanford and Troy Lyman Stanford, and by her former husband, Deryl Grant Stowe. Sue's life was marked by love, dedication, and strength. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege to know her.