Susan Wattenbarger, kind, loving soul
Susan Wattenbarger (Bowden), a woman whose kindness and love touched everyone she met, passed away peacefully at home Monday, March 10, 2025, in Lewes. Born Nov. 13, 1946, in Santa Maria, Calif., she was the daughter of the late Lester F. Bowden and Blanche Ruth (Kirker) Bowden. Susan was the widow of Roy Wattenbarger, whom she married June 17, 1966, and shared 51 years of marriage before his passing in 2018. Susan's gentle spirit and welcoming smile brightened the lives of all who knew her.
She attended Beebe School of Nursing and worked alongside Dr. James K. Beebe for many years. Her longest tenure was with Georgetown Animal Hospital, where she served as the office manager. Susan was also the co-owner of Midway Variety Store with her late husband, Roy. Outside of her professional life, Susan found immense joy in crafting and presenting her creations at craft shows, as well as cooking and baking for family and friends. She also cherished outings and travels with her sisters and children, creating countless moments of joy and laughter that will be remembered forever.
Susan is survived by a large and loving family, who were her pride and joy. Her beloved daughters, Wendy Lobato (Dante) of Lewes, Kelly Seabrook (Charles) of Greenwich, N.J., Gretchen Randazzo (Giuseppe) of Milton, and Stephanie Judy (Jonathan) of Middletown, along with her devoted son, John Wattenbarger (Natasha) of Fort Mill, S.C., each hold treasured memories of their mother's love. She was especially proud of her cherished grandchildren, Rowland Scott, Maggie, Beatrice and Charles Seabrook, Giulia, Christian, Pietro and Emma Randazzo, Lillian, William and Ashton Judy, and Maya and Rylee Wattenbarger. Susan also leaves behind her caring sisters, Peggy Spence of Houston, and Donna Calhoun of Milton.
Susan’s kindness and love left a lasting impact on everyone she met. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Susan's loving caretakers, Tami, Rachel and Barbara, and the caring nurses of Delaware Hospice for their compassionate care.
A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 20, at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, with a funeral service beginnig at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be private.
Visit Susan’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
