Suzanne Vening

Suzanne Vening, age 59, of Florence, passed away on Sunday, July 7, 2019 at her home. Preceded in death by her father, T.Q. Sims and grandparents, Walter M. and Guynell Price Hester, and Zetha Mathilda Simmons Sims, she is survived by her mother, Mary Mildred (Millie) Hester Sims; sisters, Peg N. Sims Saunders (Jon), Ellen Sims Meeler (Don), and Hester Sims; three nieces, Amanda Meeler, Alison Meeler, and Molly Clair Saunders; her beloved uncle, Walter M. (Uncle Bud) Hester; boyfriend, Scott Kraft; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Suzanne was the eldest of 4 daughters, born in Brookhaven, MS to T.Q. and Millie Sims on March 15, 1960.  She was the namesake of her Mother and maternal great grandmothers, Mollie (Mary) Chisholm Price and Mary Elizabeth Bonds Hester.

Suzanne grew up in Liberty and Bay Springs, MS where she graduated from Sylva Bay Academy. She attended Hinds Community College and graduated from Mississippi State University where she was the first female president of Inter-Residence Hall Council (IRHC) and a member of the IRHC Hall of Fame.  As a computer enthusiast, she earned a degree in Business Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis and was employed by ITS for many years, working in computer programming and web design and did free lancing in web design.

Raised in a true maroon home, she loved her alma mater and was an avid Mississippi State Bulldog.

As a young child she had a unique love of animals, so much so that she cried many miles down the road when her Mother would not go back and pick up the injured possum and take it to the Vet.    With friends, she initiated and persevered in establishing a Therapy Dog program in hospitals and nursing homes in the Metro area, including Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital and Methodist Rehab.  With her loyal Aussie rescue companion, Adam, she made many visits, and brought joy and smiles to patients.   For many years she taught obedience classes enabling pet owners to manage their pets, and taught behavioral therapy.

Suzanne was much loved by her family and friends who will miss her beautiful blue eyes, her smile, vivacious laugh and loving heart.

Online condolences may be made at www.ottandlee.com.