Susan J. Klinger passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, at SharonBrooke Assisted Living in Newark, Ohio.

Sue was born on March 2, 1942, in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, to the late Calvin and Helen (Dailey) Renn. She was the ninth of ten children and grew up surrounded by the strong sense of family that she would later create and nurture so beautifully in her own life.

Sue graduated from Sunbury High School in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, in 1960. On February 12, 1966, she married Donald H. Klinger. Together they built a loving life and shared 49 years of marriage until Donald preceded her in death in November 2015.

Sue is survived by her two daughters: Dona S. (Corby) Butler and Lynn S. (Michael) Tucker; five grandchildren: Mackenzie (Adam) Pollitt, Griffin (Haylee) Butler, Malea Butler, Lauren Tucker, and Adam Tucker; and four great-grandchildren: Madison, Trace, and Robert Pollitt, and Kasen Butler, all of Newark. She is also survived by her sister, Teresa Corbin, of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Donald, and eight siblings: Theo Smith, Daniel Renn, Viola Lenig, Donald Renn, Connie Fegley, Samuel Renn, Calvin "Babe" Renn, and Helen Shoch, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Sue loved the simple joys of life—playing card games and working on puzzles, cryptoquotes, and crossword puzzles. She had a special love for the color red, which suited her perfectly. With her bright red hair and her beloved red Volkswagen Beetle, Sue carried that color proudly throughout her life. She also had a fondness for anything nautical, especially lighthouses. Like the steady beam of a lighthouse, Sue was a constant source of warmth, comfort, and direction for those she loved.

Sue was always up for an adventure—going out to eat, going to the movies, shopping, or attending sports and activities her children and grandchildren were involved in. She lived by the example of treating others the way she wanted to be treated. Sue possessed a deeply welcoming and joyful spirit. She was known for her warm smile, quick wit, and her remarkable ability to make anyone feel instantly at home. To know her was truly to love her.

More than anything, Sue was the heart of her family. Her daughters were the center of her world, and her love and devotion to them never wavered. She loved each of her grandchildren deeply, taking great joy in their lives and accomplishments. While her family was fortunate to see her often, every visit was something special. No matter the day someone was having, they always left Sue feeling lighter, happier, and better than when they arrived. She had a rare gift for lifting spirits, easing worries, and reminding those around her what truly mattered.

Her family will forever cherish the countless moments spent around her—moments filled with laughter, conversation, and the quiet reassurance that everything would be okay simply because she was there. The love she gave so freely will remain a guiding light in the lives of all who knew her.

Sue spent many cherished years at home raising her daughters before later working for Newark City Schools. She was also a member of First United Methodist Church in Newark.

Sue's family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at SharonBrooke Assisted Living, especially the nurses and aides in the Memory Care Unit, whose compassion, patience, and dedication provided such loving care. Their kindness and support will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sue's honor to the Licking County Humane Society.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 27, 2026 from 11:00 am- 12:30 pm at the Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark where the celebration of life service will follow at 12:30 pm with Pastor Cory Campbell officiating. Burial will follow the service at Wilson Cemetery.