Sandra "Susie" Henderson Rouse

Sandra Henderson Rouse (Susie) December 15th, 1942 – November 14th, 2024 Sandra Henderson Rouse, affectionately known as "Susie," passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, at the age of 81, in Statesville, NC, surrounded by her loving family. A longtime resident of Bartow, FL, Sue was a true Southern belle, beloved for her warm heart, strong community spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family. Sue attended Bartow High School, where she fondly remembered her time as a majorette in the school band. Throughout her life, she was deeply involved in her community, serving in various roles that reflected her passion for helping others. She worked as a stenographer for the Bartow Police Chief and contributed her time and talents to the guild for the Bartow Bloomin' Arts Festival. Her love for the arts was a constant thread throughout her life, and after retiring, she turned her passion for painting into a second career, delighting in the creative process and sharing her work with others. Sue was also known for her entrepreneurial spirit, excelling in a variety of roles, including as a realtor, landlord, and volunteer. However, her most cherished roles were those of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Sue’s love for her family was boundless, and she passed down her passions for gardening, art, food, hockey, and good manners to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Sue's ability to make everyone feel special and loved was a hallmark of her character, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, love, and cherished memories. Sue is survived by her three daughters, Kimberley Blackwelder, Stephanie Ewalt, and Francesca Rouse-Salcedo; her three grandchildren, Lindsay, Jenna, and Cassandra; three great-grandchildren; and two siblings, Sonny Henderson and Debbie Parrish. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. A Graveside service will be 11:00 am Friday, December 13, 2024 at Evergreen cemetery in Fort Meade, FL. Flowers can be sent to McLean Funeral Home, 306 East Broadway in Fort Meade or donation to National Wildlife Federation NWF.org.