Sue Bracewell Whittle

Sue Bracewell Whittle, age 85, of Knoxville, peacefully passed away on April 12, 2025 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Mrs. Whittle was born on October 23, 1939, in Doraville, Georgia, to the late William Vernon Bracewell and Malcolm Cyrus Smith Bracewell. Always a scholar, Sue graduated from Chamblee High School and Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College), where she was a proud member of the Kappa Delta sorority. After their graduation in 1961, Sue married her college sweetheart and lifelong love, Stewart C. Whittle. Early in their marriage, Sue worked as a teacher while Stewart entered the U.S. Army. This took them to Monterey, California, for Stewart’s training at the Defense Language Institute, and then overseas to Germany, where they traveled widely and built cherished, lifelong friendships. Upon their return from Germany, Sue and Stewart settled in Maryland, where Stewart began a distinguished 35-year career at the National Security Agency. Sue continued teaching while also pursuing graduate studies. In 1975, they welcomed their daughter Allison, and soon after the new little family moved to Columbia, Maryland. Another international posting came in 1979, when the family moved to Camp Zama in Japan. Those years brought rich cultural experiences and happy memories. Returning to Maryland, the family made their home in Ellicott City and became active members of St. John’s Episcopal Church. Sue was a vibrant part of the community, forming many deep friendships through the Howard County Garden Club, book and bridge clubs, and social groups such as the Washington Assembly in the District of Columbia. A true friend for life, Sue nurtured and celebrated her friends; treasuring her childhood bonds with her two lifelong best friends, the late Beverly Bryan Russell and Jocelyn Agnew Camp. Over the years, the Whittles shared many joyful holidays and vacations with longtime Army friends, Eddie and Judy Whitby. Events that were particularly meaningful and cherished were the annual gatherings with the families from the 319th ASA Battalion - friendships that began during their time in Germany. Summer vacations were often spent in Maine, enjoying time with their close friends from the National Security Agency, the Bjorklunds. These enduring friendships are a testament to Sue's deep capacity for connection and the joy she found in sharing life's journey with those she loved. As Allison grew older, Sue returned to school and graduated at the top of her class from Villa Julie College with a degree in Paralegal Studies. She went on to work with Ellicott City attorney Charles P. Weyland, a role she deeply enjoyed. In retirement, Susie and Stewart followed Allison and her husband, Philip, to Knoxville, TN, where they found joy and friendship in the Forest Brook neighborhood. In a wonderful twist of fate, they were unexpectedly and joyously reunited with close friend Larry Bjorklund as neighbors. After Stewart’s passing, Sue moved in with Allison and Philip, a time filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Allison will forever cherish the opportunities and support her mother gave her, and most importantly, the love she and Sue shared. Their mother-daughter bond was one of rare closeness and one that words fail to measure—Sue was Allison’s heart, soul, and very best friend. Those that have been blessed to know both ladies can see Sue’s spirit in Allison, a testament to their bond. Allison would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff of Concord Place, Ben Atchley Veterans Home, and Smoky Mountain Hospice for their compassionate care throughout Sue’s illness. Special gratitude goes to Donna Harmon and Heather Coning, two extraordinary caregivers and dear friends who brought joy, kindness, and love to Sue’s final years. Sue will be laid to rest with Stewart at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 5901 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919. A graveside service will be held on April 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m., with Father Christopher Hogin officiating. Arrangements by Rose Funeral and Cremation - Mann. www.rosefuneraltn.com In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Alzheimer’s Tennessee.

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Sue Bracewell Whittle

October 23, 1939 - April 12, 2025