Susan Turner Worthen

Susan Turner Worthen

May 11, 1939 – April 11, 2026 

Susan Turner Worthen, a beloved wife, nurturing mother, devoted volunteer, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 11, 2026, at The Hallmark in Houston, Texas. 

Born in Beaumont, Texas, in 1939 to Lodie Belle Tucker and Sam Parsons Turner, Susan lived a life defined by generosity, creativity, and genuine care for others. She was a proud graduate of Beaumont High School and went on to attend the University of Texas, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and was honored as Kappa Alpha Rose in 1960. 

During her college years, Susan founded Bored Martyrs, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit, joyful personality, and ability to bring people together with humor and perspective. She earned a degree in Elementary Education and began her teaching career at Bradfield Elementary School in the Highland Park School District of Dallas, Texas, where she taught fifth grade for four years and made a lasting impression on her students. 

In 1967, Susan and her beloved husband, Charlie, moved to Galveston for his banking career. There, Susan devoted herself to raising their three children and to serving the Galveston community she loved so deeply. An active member of the Junior League of Galveston County, she participated in live theater, volunteered at the Soup and Sandwich Shop, and brought smiles to young patients through pediatric puppetry. 

Susan also gave her time and heart to the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston, the Galveston Children’s Home, and the University of Texas School of Nursing. Whether through volunteering or simply being present for family and friends, her warmth and humor were always felt. When not helping others, she treasured time with loved ones and rarely missed her weekly Mahjong games. 

Susan was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Charles Alan Worthen. She is survived by her children, Karen Worthen Dixon (Hank), Charles Alan Worthen, Jr. (Elise), and John Turner Worthen (Carrie), and by her seven grandchildren: Emily Kathryn Worthen, Ashley Jane Worthen, William Stephenson Dixon, Catherine Claire Dixon, Elizabeth Anne Dixon, Erin Camilla Worthen, and Paige Elizabeth Worthen. 

The family is deeply grateful to the nursing staff and caregivers at The Hallmark, whose skilled and compassionate care made a profound difference in Susan’s quality of life, especially during her final months. 

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2216 Avenue H, Galveston, Texas, with Reverend Jimmy Abbott officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Susan’s memory to the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston, 301 14th Street, Galveston, TX 77550 or the charity of your choice.

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