Wana Sue “Susie” Dobbins, passed away on November 23, 2024, in Poteau, Oklahoma, at the age of 98. She was born on April 11, 1926, in Mansfield, Arkansas, to John D. Chester and Winnie (Black) Chester.

Susie grew up in Poteau, where she attended school before marrying Chester S. Burgess. Together, they had three children: Chet, Bill, and Deborah. The family lived in Southern California for many years before she returned to Poteau in 1959. Susie worked at Walt’s Steakhouse for 31 years where she formed lifelong friendships. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren Will, Nathan, Titus, and Barbara Burgess, and Larry Jr. and Sondra (Frank) Wilson, as well as her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who knew her affectionately as Grandma Sue. She also treasured her many nieces and nephews to whom she was Aunt Sue. In her final days she had began speaking of spending time with her parents, siblings and loved ones who had gone on before her. She enjoyed life and was able to live in her own home thanks to many; especially Dr. Scott Clark, Trina, Mary Catherine, Fostine, Sheila and Babs. A faithful member of Pocola Heights Free Will Baptist Church where she was known as Sister Sue, she was deeply loved and well cared for throughout her life. We are thankful for her 98 active years and she will be forever missed.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Ernest, JB, Mildred, Wenona, and Dovie; her son, Bill Burgess; her great-grandson, Little Will; and other beloved family members and friends, including her daughter-in-law, Laura Burgess, and son-in-law, Larry Wilson.
She is survived by her brother, George Chester; her children, Chet Burgess and Deborah Wilson; grandchildren, and other cherished relatives, including Christy Wilson and Linda Burgess.
A Memorial Service for Wana Sue Dobbins, 98, of Poteau, Oklahoma, will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, with Jim Cook officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.

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