Susan Dishman went home to be with the Lord on July 28, 2003. Her 59 years of life, and especially her 3 year battle with ovarian cancer are summarized in her favorite verse, Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good to them who are called according to His purpose.” Though she thought of herself as an ordinary wife and mother, all those who came to know her quickly found out that “this was no ordinary person you’re dealing with.” Her sweetness was matched by her elegance, and her penetrating wisdom led her family to nickname her “the oracle.” Her family and friends marveled at her courage during her trials as she drew on her faith in Jesus Christ, who enabled her to use her deep insight into the needs of others to provide guidance and encouragement.
Susan was born on Aug. 30, 1943, in Oklahoma City to Helen Ethel (Kindblade) and Elwood Davis Sanders. She graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a BS in Home Economics Education, where she was awarded a fellowship to the Merrill Palmer Institute for Child & Family Development. She married John Moreland Dishman on July 10, 1965. He survives her along with their 3 sons, David (wife Elizabeth), Mark (wife Angie) and Peter, two granddaughters, Susanna and Lydia, sister Shari Sanders Schwarz, nieces Megan and Jamison, nephew Daniel (wife Kathy) and their children Victoria and Nathaniel.
As a lifelong teacher she taught in several public and private schools. She was co-founder of the Emmanuel Christian School in Whippany, NJ. As an empty-nester she became a certified academic language therapist, and found great satisfaction in helping dyslexic children learn to read and write. She was a member of the Academic Language Therapy Association.
A Presbyterian believer for most of her life, Susan had a profound and personal trust in the sovereignty of God, even as in His providence she was led to walk with Him in the valley of the shadow of death. Shortly before she died she expressed as her fondest hope that all her future generations would likewise share in the joys of His covenant promises.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Town North Presbyterian Church Children’s Ministries Fund.
Posted by John Dishman at July 30, 2003 09:04 PM