Susie Whitely

Reflections of a Remarkable Life

Susie "Sue" Whitely was born in Faunsdale, Alabama, to the late Andrew and Charlie Mae Walker. After graduating from Lincoln Normal High School in Marion, Alabama, she relocated to Bessemer, Alabama, where she began a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service, three values that defined every chapter of her extraordinary 92-year journey.

She was united in holy matrimony to the late Nixon L. Whitely for fifty beautiful years, and together they lovingly raised six children. Their union was a testament to unwavering commitment, shared dreams, and enduring love.

From an early age, Susie confessed Christ and became a member of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Bessemer, Alabama. There, she served faithfully and humbly in many capacities: as a deaconess wife, a member of the senior choir, a Sunday school teacher, and a dedicated contributor to the Mission Ministry and Culinary Ministry. Even as seasons changed, her devotion never wavered. In 2017, she joined New Salem Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Rodney George, continuing her lifelong commitment to serving the Lord and her community.

A Life of Purpose, Servic and Strength

Susie's faith was not only spoken - it was lived. She was affiliated with the Jefferson County District Missionary Association, where she served under the Deacon Wives Auxiliary and played a pivotal role in helping the Northwest District achieve its fundraising goals.

Together with her beloved husband, she built a lasting legacy through their business, Bessemer Vault and Monument Company. After Nixon's passing, Susie continued to operate Bessemer Monument Company with dignity, grace, and integrity, ensuring that countless families were served with compassion during their most tender moments.

Beyond her professional and spiritual life, Susie was a woman of many passions. She was an avid reader and loved deep, meaningful conversations that often turned into treasured lessons. But perhaps nothing brought her more joy than cooking. She was a true queen in her kitchen, preparing mouthwatering meals with love and care and teaching her children the importance of both nourishment and togetherness. Sundays quickly became a cherished family tradition known as "Sunday at Sue's," a time when family, friends, and neighbors gathered to share food, laughter, stories, and love.

Her home was always open. Her table always had room for one more. And her heart, always overflowing, made everyone who entered feel like family.

her legacy: family forever

Above all, Susie's greatest joy and purpose were found in her family. She adored them deeply, and there was nothing more precious to her than the moments spent surrounded by those she loved. She built not just a family, but a legacy, one grounded in love, strengthened by faith, and carried forward through generations.

Susie was preceded in death by: her beloved son, Anthony, her cherished grandson, Clifford Adrian, and her two brothers, A.G. and Andrew Walker.

She leaves to cherish her memories: her devoted children, Derick (Valencia) of Tinsley Park, IL, Clifford (Katrina) of Pleasant Grove, AL, Belinda (Marion) of Midfield, AL, Sonya (Romelle) of Bessemer, AL and Yvonne (Kenneth) of Bessemer, AL. Also left to honor her legacy are one sister-in-law, Annie M. Walker of Midfield, AL; ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends whose lives she touched.