Susan Stow Bebon died of breast cancer on August 25, 2024, 23 years after the initial diagnosis. Born December 13, 1943 in New York City, Sue moved to Delaware in 1945, graduating from John Dickinson High School in 1961 and the University of Delaware in 1965 with a degree in biology and a career focus on cytology. She worked in hospital laboratories before moving on to Lab Corp in New Jersey, returning to Wilmington after her retirement.
Sue lived a full and adventurous 80 years. She could light up a room with her unexpected stories, infectious laugh, and sweeping enthusiasm for all facets of life. Her love of travel often found her in exotic places, initially accompanied by her husband Bob Bebon and later with her cousin Nancy Breuer. A season ticket holder at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York for many years, she took great joy in attending operas with her friend Maria and dining in the city afterwards. In her later years Sue developed a love of Mahjongg, playing frequently with her friends Maria, Cindy, and Kathy.
The cat distribution system favored Sue. Feline companions– Trouble, Chloe, Boots, and Wiley, to name a few– found their way to her, either as a surprise or through a friend. (Over time an impressive collection of cat decor also came to reside with her, gifted by friends and family and graciously accepted with delight.)
Sue wished to express her gratitude for all her friendships, especially those that she held in her final years.
She was a fighter and an inspiration, and she will not be soon forgotten.
Susan Bebon was predeceased by her father Frederic S Stow, Jr., her mother Mary S. Stow, and her brother Richard B. Stow. She is survived by her brother Frederic S. Stow, III (Patricia), sister Martha H. Stow (Tim Bunnell), nephews and nieces Nathan J. Elton (Molly), Jeffrey W. Elton (Robin), Meredith S. Markwell (Adam), Ryan Stow, Derek Stow, Matthew S. Bunnell, Jessica D. Bunnell (Luis Lipchak) and great nephews and nieces Jacob, Maverick, and Cassidy Elton, Olivia and James Elton, Grant Markwell, and Joaquin Lipchak, all of whom she loved so much.
A service will be held in remembrance of Sue on September 7 at 11:00 am at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 2800 Duncan Rd, Wilmington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Wildcat Sanctuary or to a charity of the sender’s choice. To send condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com.
