Sue Dines

M. Sue Dines, 86, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at Fountain Springs in Covington, Indiana. Born on April 30, 1939, in Danville, Illinois, to Forrest and Mildred McGowen, she was known for her unwavering generosity and love for her family.

Sue's professional journey began at the State's Attorney's Office, where she lent her skills as a legal secretary for eight years. Following this, she devoted fifteen years to serving as the legal secretary for Don Merlie, further establishing her reputation for responsibility and diligence. She then culminated over 25 years at Dines Machine & Manufacturing before her eventual retirement.

A proud graduate of Potomac High School, Sue was more than an exemplary worker; she was a radiant beacon of kindness in her community. Her legacy is filled with the countless generous deeds she performed for others. Sue was an engaging member of various local organizations, including the Red Hat Society and the Danville Boat Club, where she forged enduring friendships and spread her contagiously warm-hearted enthusiasm. She also proudly belonged to the Elk Lodge #332 in Danville, where her peers recognized her outstanding contributions by naming her the Lady Elk of the Year. Sue's involvement with the Women in Construction and her attendance at the Second Church of Christ were testaments to her dedication to community and faith.

Sue, also affectionately referred to as “Grandma Suey” by most that knew her, married Ralph D. Reed in 1958, and then later married Max Dines in 1979. Both have preceded her in death. In addition to Ralph and Max, she was also preceded by her parents; her granddaughter Miley Reed; and her siblings Donna (Curtis) Orr, Nancy (Dale) Farner, Glen McGowen, and Francis McGowen.

Sue is survived by her children Rick (Beccy) Reed of Danville, Julie (Kevin) McKenzie of Danville, and Judith Dines of Westville, as well as her grandchildren Lindsay Darr, Tyler (Stefanie) McKenzie, and Lauren (Matt) Wivinis. Over the past couple of years, she proudly welcomed 3 great-grandchildren into the family: Reese McKenzie, Reed Wivinis, and Walker Wivinis, who will miss her dearly. She also leaves behind her brother Lloyd (Margaret) McGowen of Williamsport, and her sisters-in law Linda Smith, who became one of her dearest friends, and Sandy Steinbaugh. Above all else, Sue loved spending time with her family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834. Officiating will be Rev. Dr. Dale DeNeal. Entombment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park’s Swan Court Mausoleum. A visitation will be held prior from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Bismarck Blessings, at P.O. Box 354, Bismarck, IL 61814 or to the Miley Reed Scholarship Foundation (Code R035) at Olivet Nazarene University, One University Avenue, Bourbonnais, IL 60914. Please join Sue’s family in sharing memories, pictures, or videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.