Susan Judith "Sue" Oertel

Susan Judith (Edwards) Oertel, 85, of Centerville, Ohio, reunited with her loving husband of 61 years in eternal peace on April 5, 2026. She was born on March 19, 1941, in Ossining, New York, to the late Elvin B. and Agnes D. (Ahearn) Edwards.

Sue attended Burris Laboratory School in Muncie, Indiana, and graduated from Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, Illinois. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin and later a Master of Arts degree from Eastern Michigan University.

A devoted wife to David, Sue was the heart of her family, providing unconditional love, support, joy, and strength. Together, they raised two children, Mark David Oertel and Carrie Sue (Oertel) Busby.

Sue began her professional career as a second‑grade teacher in elementary education. After spending time at home raising her children, she worked with the Muscular Dystrophy Association in the Dayton area and later concluded her career with 11 years of dedicated service at The Dayton Foundation.

A loving friend to all, Sue focused her time and talents on education and community involvement. She participated in the Junior League, P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization), tutoring programs, and various grant and scholarship committees throughout the Dayton area.

A longtime member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Sue taught Sunday school, attended adult education classes, and formed lifelong friendships through Presby Group fellowship. In later years, she and David were members of David’s United Church of Christ.

A devoted member of the Literary Gourmet Club, Sue loved cooking and reading and cherished frequent lunch celebrations with dear friends. She and David also enjoyed the local arts and were generous supporters of area theaters, including The Human Race Theatre Company and Victoria Theatre.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband, David Albert Oertel. She is survived by her children, Mark David Oertel and Carrie Sue (Oertel) Busby (Daniel); her grandchildren, Matthew Oertel, Rory Busby, and Suzanne Busby; her sister, Nancy Sarah Edwards-Dasho (Stefan); and her brother‑in‑law, Roger Oertel (Rita).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to express sympathy consider a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in Sue’s name.

A celebration of Sue and Dave’s lives together will be planned by the family at a later date.