Susan Allen Ralston

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Susan Allen Ralston, who left us peacefully on March 23, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on September 17, 1938, in Benton, Illinois, she was a cherished member of our family and community.

Susan was the daughter of a coal miner, Knox, and Aretha Hester. She was the beloved sister of Sid, Pat, Linda, and Cookie. She was preceded in death by her husband Victor, her parents, her brothers Sid and Cookie Hester, her sister Linda Upchurch, her daughter-in-law Tami Lemme, and two great-grandchildren Riley and Micheal Guess. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her sister Pat, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

In 1956, Susan married Victor Allen, her devoted partner of 38 years. Together, they built a life filled with love and joy. She was the loving mother of Bill Allen, LeAnn Matthews (Clay), Juanell Hanna, Mark Allen (Shannon), and her bonus daughter Andrea Mires and took immense pride in her role as a nurturing and caring parent.

Susan dedicated many years to working as a foster parent where she touched the lives of many with her compassion and dedication. In her span of being a foster parent, she took care of and loved 36 children as her own. Beyond her professional life, she was actively involved in her home church Harvest Time Pentecostal Church of God.

She is survived by her 4 children, 12 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandkids and counting. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and love will continue to inspire us all.

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held on March 27th, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., in the Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount Blvd. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday evening, March 26th, 2025, from 6:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. Family and friends are invited to join us in remembering and honoring her remarkable life.

Susan will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched. Her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear granny. You are eternally loved.