Susan Grace (Castleberry) Garner

Susan was born Aug. 24, 1952, in Dunkirk, N.Y., and raised in Dunkirk and Fredonia, the oldest child of the late William G. and Clara R. (Burchett) Castleberry.

A 1970 graduate of Fredonia High School Susan obtained a Bachelor of Science in Exceptional Education from Buffalo State College in 1974. In 1975 she attended and graduated from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Ill. Susan then returned to Buffalo State College and obtained her Master of Science in Exceptional Education in 1978. Susan taught in Buffalo Public Schools for a total of 29 years before retiring in 2014.

Susan loved cats, dogs, the beauty and wonder of nature, music, reading and teaching. She enjoyed helping others and in her retirement took up painting and crafting. A lifelong learner she especially enjoyed her lessons and friendship with the WCA Home Lifestyles Coordinator Jennifer. “Those who love teaching help others love learning.”

Susan was a member of the Niagara Presbyterian Church, The Buffalo Teachers Federation, Beaver Meadows Audubon, and The National Wildlife Association.

In addition to her parents Susan was predeceased by her husband and best friend Charles Bennett, who died June 20, 2019.

Susan leaves behind her loving little dog Nathan and his selfless adopted mother Rita. She is survived by one brother, William P. (Bonita) Castleberry of Middleburg, Fla., and two sisters, Karen A. (Daniel) Geibel of Republic, WA and Sally C. (Patrick) O’Malley of Dunkirk, N.Y. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date by the Lane Funeral Home, 8622 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. In lieu of flowers Susan suggested donations may be made to the Erie County SPCA, The Niagara Presbyterian Church, or The WCA Assisted Living Home of Fredonia.