TRAVERSE CITY — Sarah Martha "Sue" Crampton spent the majority of her adult life in Northern Michigan. She loved the area's lakes, woods and beaches. She believed in people and their ability to do good. She belonged to the Democratic Party and was an elected precinct delegate for many years. Sue was born in Parkersburg, W.Va., on March 28, 1933. She married Richard H. Crampton on March 25, 1961. Together they raised two children, Susan and Richard H. Crampton II "Cricket". She truly loved her children, and they know it. Sue earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Marshall University.She was a member of the American Association of University Women and Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Her belief and trust in God never failed her. Sue taught speech and English in the Cleveland and the Franklin, Ohio, public schools. She also directed many plays in Traverse City; 'Miracle Worker' and 'Barefoot in the Park' were two of her best efforts. She had the ability to direct and encourage local actors to achieve. She told them they would achieve "standing ovations," and they did.Sue loved Traverse City and the area. However, once she viewed the Atlantic Ocean, she adored it. One of her favorite photos of the beach holds a place of honor above the fireplace in her home. Sue leaves a rich heritage. She loved humanity and did not appreciate anyone who took advantage of anybody. She celebrated peace and justice and all those who seek it.Visitation for friends and family will be held from 6 until 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 10, 2011, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Memorial services will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday July 11, 2011, at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Traverse City, with the Rev. David Gabel officiating.Memorial contributions may be directed to the Grand Traverse County Democratic Party. Please share thoughts with the family at Sue's online guestbook at
www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The
family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.