Lorna Sue Cary, 86, of Vincennes, died peacefully on Monday, January 23, 2023 at Colonial Assisted Living where she resided. Lorna was born on December 20, 1936, and was the only child of John D. “Jack” and Irene Keller Lenahan. Sue was a member of the St. Rose Academy Class of 1954 and earned a Registered Nurse (RN) degree from St. Mary’s School of Nursing, Evansville, Indiana in 1957. She married Calvin “Cap” Cary Jr. on September 28, 1957, and together they raised five children. Sue’s nursing career spanned over 30 years. Known for her hard work, medical knowledge and breadth of nursing skills, she retired as a Coronary Care charge nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in 1984.
Throughout her life, Sue had a strong Christian faith. She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church as a child and later joined Sacred Heart with her own family. Sue enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies, especially bowling with girlfriends and a good game of euchre. Friendly slot machines seemed to know her by name. An avid sports fan, Sue’s knowledge of Indiana Hoosier men’s basketball, Notre Dame Fighting Irish football, the Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Cardinals rivaled any sportscaster. Her Christmas cookies and candies were legendary. Along with her husband, Lorna actively supported the Vincennes American Legion Post 73, where they served as Unit Commander and Auxiliary President in 1983-1984.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 48 years, granddaughter Jessica J. Cary and grandson, Zackary Kiltz. She is survived by her five children: Peggy (Randy) Mifflin of Zionville, IN; Joseph Cary of Vincennes, IN; Jayne (Bill) Kelly of Dade City, FL; Rebecca (Gary) Brown of Bicknell, IN; and Angela (Randy) Gollihue of Crawfordville, FL. Grandma Sue is survived by four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Sue’s family gives heartfelt thanks to the Colonial Assisted Living staff for many years of dedicated care and to Good Samaritan Hospice for providing comfort during her final weeks.
A private celebration of life will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 73, c/o Duesterberg-Fredrick Funeral Home, 521 Vigo St., Vincennes, IN 47591 or the Vincennes Animal Shelter, 1128 River Road, Vincennes, IN 47591.
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