Burtnett Family Stories, and the Lives of McIlhanys, Cuban Relatives, and Others: Susan Luers Burtnett Bablove

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Susan Luers Burtnett Bablove

Last week, John Burtnett III of Spartanburg talked to his sister, Susan. He had been in the hospital for six weeks, recovering from an unexpected surgery. Also unexpected was Susan's news that she was feeling beaten down during a new round of chemo.

For eighteen years, Susan had valiantly fought the cancer beast. She battled those years with strength and optimism, enjoying time with her daughter Laura, son-in-law Alex, grandson Braeden, and fiance Greg. She loved the fresh start of California on which she'd embarked in the early 2000's, while keeping in touch with dear friends back in Nashville.

My dad was worried when he talked to his sister last week. Somehow this time seemed different. God had always allowed Aunt Susan to bounce back, but this time, He had another plan. She was under hospice care in a matter of days. On Tuesday, Laura said it wouldn't be long.

I sought the interceding prayers of every Christ-follower I could think of. Yesterday morning, Laura and I spoke for almost an hour. Aunt Susan had slipped into eternity a little after midnight, California time. It's hard to believe she's gone.

Although the miles kept us apart, Aunt Susan was always there, ever affirming, ever kind. Her blue eyes sparkled under long Burtnett lashes. My girls and I looked forward to the goodies she sent at Christmas; not for the stuff, but because the packages were so "Aunt Susan." She used to take the covers off of old, beautiful cards and trim them in ribbon as package adornments. In the tradition of her mother, she would address certain items "From Our House to Your House." And then she started sending edible treats with cute boxes from Harry & David. Sometimes joy is just in what can be counted on. I'm going to miss that this Christmas.

Her family and friends have been left with a Susan-shaped void. I thank God for her life. He created her uniquely in His image, and He loved her. So did those in her life: Laura, Greg, Alex, Braeden, John and Marilyn, Harriet, Jessica, Jeremy and me and our girls, Nancy Jo, and those who went before her: her parents, grandparents, and other relatives. I couldn't possibly include all her friends, former co-workers, the "Bunco gals" she talked about, people from her church, extended family, and all others touched by her life. Thank you for loving her, and may Christ's love comfort you in your grief.

I've always thought this photo of baby Susan and big brother Johnny was hilarious! She would refer to him as "Big Brother" even in adulthood.

Susan with her maternal grandmother, Mary Hannah Nordsiek, whom she called "Buh."

Sweet baby Susan

Can't say I blame her for looking skeptical about that Santa!

Johnny and Susan with their dad, Jack Burtnett, and dog, "Burt."
David, KY, 1955

Easter 1957

Cutie pie!

Susan with her family: Grandfather Harry Burtnett, Johnny, Grandmother Nellie McIlhany Burtnett, mother Mary Nordsiek Burtnett, and father John Harrison Burtnett, Jr.