Susan Elizabeth (Blanton) Yancey January 19, 1940 – November 28, 2018 Susan Elizabeth (Blanton) Yancey of Hereford, Arizona passed away unexpectedly, on November 28, 2018 in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Susan was born January 19, 1940 in Juneau, Alaska to parents Dr. William P. & Phyllis L. Blanton. During her young life in Juneau, she made many lifelong friends, particularly a group of girlfriends referred to as the Magnificent Eight.
They remained friends for over 65 years. Many attended her services from as far away as Alaska. Susan attended the University of Washington and the University of Montana at Missoula, was a lifelong member of the Alpha Phi Sorority.
She began working for Alaska Airlines in Fairbanks, Alaska, in March of 1967 where she had a long and fulfilling 34- year career, retiring in October of 2000. During her time with Alaska Airlines, as manager she mentored many employees and made many lifelong friends that had a deep respect and admiration for her. She loved being in charge and setting the example.
Following her retirement in 2000, she enjoyed resort life at Blue Lake in central Washington and Buckhorn Lake in Kerrville, Texas. From 2004-2008, RVing in her motor coach and exploring many areas of the United States. In 2007, Sue and Chet bought a high-desert ranch home and property in Hereford, AZ.
where she was enjoying retirement until her passing. Susan was an avid gardener. She would plant, add water and grow anything she put her mind to.
Southern Arizona provided the sunshine. She was also an excellent homemaker and gourmet cook, taught by her mother and proudly passed on to her loving daughters. Susan was preceded in death by her parents Dr. William P. Blanton, Phyllis L. Blanton and stepfather Robert G. Mitchell, parents in-law James L. and Maxine R. Yancey.
Susan is survived by the love of her life, Chester “Chet” Yancey, husband of 40 years of Hereford, AZ, brother Alexander M. “Sandy” Blanton and wife Judith of New York, NY, their children Alex, Michael & Kathy and their spouses and children; brother Thomas P. Blanton of Wenatchee, Wa. and daughter Natalie, her husband and children and daughter Emily Carr, her husband and children; daughters Rebecca A. Reynolds and husband Lauren of Bremerton, Wa. , Bonnie S. Nolan and husband Chris of Star, Idaho; grandchildren Amanda Long and husband Jesse of Fairbanks, AK, Brian Birklid and wife Allison of Denver, Co., Christopher Nolan of Denver, Co., Nicholas Priddy of Anchorage, Ak; brother-in-law Charles and wife Donna Yancey of Alice, Tx; sister-in-law Dianne and husband Jim Shelton of Brooksville, Florida.
Susan was laid to rest December 6, 2018, at Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Sierra Vista, AZ. It was a beautiful day with many of her close friends and family in attendance. We all loved Susan and will miss her.
May God bless her and she rest in peace for eternity. Memorials may be made in her name to Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1300 Buffalo Soldier Trail, Sierra Vista, Az 85635.
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