Virginia "Sue" Banbury

Virginia “Sue” Banbury, age 88, died on May 2, surrounded by her loved ones following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Millersburg, Ohio, on September 27, 1937, to parents Alfretta and John Barnes. She was happily married for 63 years to her high school sweetheart, Delmar Banbury, who preceded her in death.

Filled with infectious spirit and energy, Sue was deeply devoted to her family, church, community and her favorite sports teams. During any given week, her full schedule might include attending a board meeting or volunteering at Pomerene Hospital, delivering hand crafted coverlets to patients at the Cleveland Clinic in Wooster, serving as a church elder and consistory member, attending choir practice, or high school sports and community events.  She loved cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Cavaliers, offering play-by-play analysis and critique. She forgave LeBron for leaving the Cavs—both times.

An avid and expert gardener with an encyclopedic knowledge of flowers and plants, Sue could identify almost any variety along with its ideal growing conditions. Each summer, she and Delmar grew a large garden with an abundant crop of vegetables, which they shared enthusiastically with friends and family. She also loved baking in excess—mastering legendary, tender pie crusts that she kept well-stocked for the perfect pie needed at a moment’s notice. Her love of reading inspired her to join the West Holmes school system library staff, travel to story-telling events, book signings, and author visits, and select the ideal books for her grandchildren.

Sue is survived by her companion, Arlie Rodhe; her children Jill Shawd (Mike), Julie Robinson (David), Doug Banbury (Beth); her grandchildren Elliott Shawd (Meleha), Adam Shawd (Colleen), Sam Robinson, Aaron Robinson, Reid Banbury, and Ellie Banbury; and her great grandchildren Samara Shawd, and Sufiyan Shawd. She is also survived by her sisters, Patty Bushman and Barb Cargill, along with many loving nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held on Saturday, May 16, at 12:00pm at St. John’s Church of Millersburg, 8670 State Route 39, Millersburg, OH, with calling hours from 10:00am until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John’s Church of Millersburg, or Pomerene Hospital. Pomerene Hospital | Donate

Our family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers for our mother’s care over the last few months.

Alexander Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.alexanderfhinc.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.